Why 'Family First' Isn't Our Rule: Balancing Motherhood and Ambition

I love my babies with everything in me, and I’m committed to them beyond a shadow of a doubt. BUT…they don’t always, automatically, without question come first.

Family doesn’t always come first in our house. We make decisions one at a time, as they come, to the best of our ability in that moment. Sometimes our kid's needs come first. And, sometimes they don’t. We know that facing life as it comes like that means that sometimes we'll get it wrong, and we've decided that's ok.

Our house is REAL LIFE, not an afterschool special. And in real life, outside our home, they’re not always going to have their needs catered to 100% of the time, either. They’re going to have to learn patience, and understand their needs must be blended and prioritized with others.

My truth is that my family AND my career are BOTH important to me. (And so are a handful of other things, for that matter.) They’re both a part of me. I’ve wanted both my whole life. I’ve sacrificed and worked my ass off for both.

Also, my career provides a whole lot FOR my family. And, partly, my career is just for me. I believe in doing things that are just for me, even though I’m a mother. In fact, I believe in doing things for just me, BECAUSE I’m a mother. And my career is one of those things. Sometimes I put my career first. 

I’m so deeply grateful to be their mommy! That opportunity is such an important part of my life; such an important part of me! But, it’s not all of me. A version of me exists outside of motherhood.

No, it’s not “family first” at our house. It’s just, “family.” There is no first or second, it’s all part of one fluid whole that makes up our lives. They are part of everything, and a factor in everything. But, they’re not the only thing.

Here’s to every woman who’s ever cried the same tears I’ve cried, feeling like you aren’t enough for your babies. Hear me now: You were made perfectly for the jobs you’re here to do - as their mom, and as whatever else you’re called to be. You are designed perfectly, girl. You are enough, and you are not “too much.” I promise.  

You’re meant to show up as all that you’re called to be.