I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen other moms feeling inadequate, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been that mom myself. But when a world champion athlete admits to those sentiments, it’s a reminder that no mother, no matter how fabulous, feels capable all the time.
“I just was in a funk,” Serena Williams disclosed in an Instagram post on Monday. The mama of adorable one-year-old Olympia explains, “I felt like I was not a good mom.” She goes on to write that postpartum symptoms can last up to three years after giving birth “if not dealt with” and then discloses that her preferred method of handling those feelings is communication with loved ones. “Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal.”
Amazingly, Williams has managed to be with Olympia every single day since she was born, which is remarkable considering the demands of the tennis star’s demanding career. Still, the 36-year-old confesses, “I’m not around as much as I would like to be.Then she made a comment that hits at the heart of motherhood: “Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art.” Our kids need time with us, and in many ways, we need that time with them, too. But we also need time for ourselves, for our passions, careers, relationships and sanity. And striking the delicate balance between immersing ourselves in motherhood and being away from our babies for other callings – well, Williams said it perfectly: it’s an art.
She wrapped up the post by reminding mothers that they truly are heroes, reassuring them, “If you are having a rough day or week — it’s ok — I am, too!!! There’s always [tomorrow]!” Thankfully, when motherhood overwhelms us and we find ourselves consumed by feelings of inadequacy, we can bear in mind that we’re not alone and that tomorrow always offers a fresh start. Well said, Serena!
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And today we celebrate...