Let me start by saying this: I never dreamed of having children. Nope, kids were not in my grand life plan. I envisioned myself as a successful woman, jet-setting around the world, coming and going as I pleased. The thought of playdates and PTA meetings? Not on my radar. Fast forward five years, and here I am, a mom of three. But guess what? My life may have changed, but my dreams haven’t. I still travel, hit the gym, run my business, watch trashy reality TV for self-care, and make time for my marriage. And let me tell you, it’s not only possible—it’s my reality.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Society loves to tell us we’re doing too much if we dare to have lives beyond motherhood. Should I be spending all my time planning overpriced extracurricular activities, arranging playdates, and watching Cocomelon on repeat? Should my entire existence revolve around creating magical experiences for my kids and shopping for Christmas in July just to beat the rush? Please.
When people find out I have three kids and a husband, the reactions are priceless. “How are you doing it?” they ask, eyes wide with disbelief. “You really go to the gym at 4:30am?” or my personal favorite, “You’re always traveling, aren’t you lucky?” And to that, I say: Just because I have kids doesn’t mean I’ve lost my right to enjoy my adult life. Yes, I’m a mom, but that doesn’t mean my entire personality has to be wrapped up in motherhood. You must be out of your mind if you think otherwise.
The lifestyle I live allows me to do the things I enjoy, accomplish my goals, and chase my dreams—all while raising a family. It’s a balancing act, sure, and, if I am being honest, it’s one I haven’t quite mastered yet. I am still figuring it out and that’s okay. Some weeks I do great, others I am scrambling to allow myself to be Nathelie and not mom. But the best part is that I’m setting a precedent for my kids by showing them it’s okay to be authentic and not be perfect. And most of all, I’m showing them that being a parent doesn’t mean you have to stop living your life. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.
I’m teaching my children that it’s okay to have passions, dreams, and yes, even a guilty pleasure or two. I’m showing them that it’s possible to be a devoted parent while still pursuing the things that make you happy. Because let’s be real: a happy mom makes for a happy home.
So, to all the moms out there who feel like they have to choose between being a parent and being themselves, I’m here to tell you—don’t. You can have it all. You just have to do it your way. And if anyone tells you otherwise, well, they’re just out of their minds.
