Ask any parent, and they will tell you that parenthood changes you in many ways.

As my son turns 2 in a few days, I want to take a moment to reflect on the values I've brought into our family system and the things I am truly proud of accomplishing as a mother.

I'd love to hear from you, too. What are 10 things you are proud of in your motherhood/parenthood journey?

Here's mine:

1. I don't believe in “This is how we have done things till now, so that's what we will do.” I read updated research, books, and watch videos to learn what else I can do to become a better parent.

2. I let my son be with others and experience different environments. I don't gatekeep him unless there are genuinely unhealthy or harmful situations involved.

3. Most of the rules that apply to him apply to his parents too. We can't tell him not to do something and then end up doing it ourselves. Whether it's watching screens, eating unhealthy food, or not eating enough vegetables and fruits, we have to lead by example. If he has to do it, we have to do it too.

4. I let him have disagreements with his friends without immediately interfering or solving things for him. I tell the other parent, “Let's let them figure it out for a bit. We will step in if things get really ugly.”

5. He doesn't have to be perfect around adults. He is allowed to spill, break things, explore, get dirty, and just live life freely.

6. He doesn't have to hug adults or say “I love you” if he doesn't want to. His body has agency, and he should be able to listen to what his body and mind are telling him feels safe or unsafe. He may not always get it right, but he is practising the art of listening to his body cues. I won't come between that.

7. I am teaching him eye contact and how to appreciate people and thank them for what they do. He thanks his dad for cooking, the waiter for bringing him food, and the hosts for inviting us. And he does it while looking into their eyes.

8. He is learning to do household chores, even if it takes him time. I'd rather let him learn at his own pace than do everything for him because it's quicker.

9. I am not a solo parent. We both have our roles as Mom and Dad, and we take them seriously. We both contribute using our individual strengths.

10. My emotional regulation is more important than getting him to do something I've asked him to do. We take breaks when tantrums arise (on both sides). If I react rudely, I get down to his level and apologise for my behaviour. He knows that people are not allowed to treat him badly.

And that's my list. Motherhood is a journey of learning, unlearning, and growing together. ❤️

I'd love to hear yours!