I’ve written a lot about the challenges of motherhood at an older age. But what about the amazing part of being a mother at an older age? There’s a lot on this list, so I thought it was time I wrote about that!
- Having time to decide what I wanted in a partner/father of my kids. Because I didn’t have kids until I was 40 and older, I had many years watching other women become mothers. Having such a close look at the struggles and obstacles gave me insight into my own journey, and allowed me to realize that I wanted to become a parent with a partner who is hands-on. Hubby is incredible as a father (he’s a stay-at-home dad) and I am so glad I waited for the right partner to become a mother.
- Living life to the fullest in my 20s and 30s. Hubby and I talk often about what our weekends looked like before we had kids. My Saturdays right before I had our first son was about hitting the gym, then meeting up with friends and doing whatever I wanted with my day. I had many years like this, and I’m so glad I did. I also took many trips by myself, and after traveling with my family for the first time this past summer, I don’t miss those solo trips at all. I had all that I ever needed from my younger years!
- Learning from other mothers. Having a baby at an older age enabled me to brace for a few things, including signs of postpartum depression/anxiety, accepting that breastfeeding would be hard, and understanding that motherhood was at times full of joy, but also a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences.
- Having time to build my career. What I’m proud of is not only being a mother, but being a working mother. This is something my children have been exposed to since they were born. I’ve been working since I was 23 (more than 20 years!) and I’m now a vice president of communications for a D.C.-based non-profit. I’m happy I was able to build my career for years before having children.
Drop a comment below if you’d like to share your own thoughts regarding the benefits of motherhood at an older age.
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