There was a time I used to feel guilty for everything for wanting space, for needing help.
for not being the “perfect” mom.
But after two kids, endless sleepless nights, and moments where I didn’t even recognize myself in the mirror — I’ve changed.
Now, I choose honesty over guilt.
Now, I choose grace over perfection.
So here are 11 things I once felt ashamed of but not anymore.
1. I binge-watch TV at night 📺
Once the kids are asleep, that’s the only time I get to just be me.
Not a mom. Not a wife. Just Anu , curled up in bed with Netflix or YouTube, sometimes watching something silly, sometimes emotional.
It really helps me switch off, escape, and breathe.
2. I go on dates with my husband 💕
After our second baby, something shifted between us. We started arguing over small things , the kind of fights that aren’t really about the fight but about being exhausted and disconnected.
He was fully occupied with office work, I was drained from managing both kids. We both were doing our best, but we had no time left for us. And deep inside, we missed each other.
So we decided to hire a helper. It wasn’t easy, but it gave us back something priceless ” our time“.
Now, we try to go on small dates at Marina bay sands, sometimes just a walk, sometimes grocery shopping at Mustafa or a quiet dinner at Little India. Just the two of us. And every little outing reminds us: we’re not just parents, we’re partners too.
3. Sometimes, I choose myself over my kids 🧖♀️
I love my children more than anything… but being around them all day, nonstop talking, crying, feeding, cleaning ,it can feel too much sometimes.
I don’t even get a peaceful washroom break. Can’t eat hot food. Can’t check my phone without someone climbing over me.
I used to feel bad for thinking this way. But not anymore. Now, as soon as my husband steps in after work, I hand over the kids and head out sometimes for a long walk, sometimes to write in my journal, sometimes to meet a friend and talk about things beyond diapers and tantrums.
That short break? It’s like a reset button for me.
It fills me up with calm and energy ,.so I can go back home and be the mom they deserve, not a burnt-out version of me.
4. If my kids don’t greet guests, I don’t push them
When Aarav was little, I used to feel embarrassed if he didn’t say “hello” to elders.
But now I know better. Aagam is more of introvert kid and most of the times just hides behind me ,and I let him be instead of forcing him to say hello…
Because they’re not being rude — they’re just learning to feel safe in their own way.
5. I don’t buy them everything they ask for 🧨
Whether it’s toys, gadgets, or treats — I say “no” more than I say “yes.”
Not because I’m strict, not because I don’t have money but because I want them to understand the value of things.
Love doesn’t come wrapped in shiny boxes and so my elder one also understands now that he won’t get everything that he demands for.
6. I breastfeed in public 🧱
When Aarav was baby I used to feel ackward about breastfeeding him, and I end up feeding him in toilet or corner without ventilation. But for my second one , Airports, malls, taxis , I’ve fed Aagam wherever needed. Sometimes I get stares. But I didn’t bother my their look because my baby’s hunger matters more than society’s comfort.
I feed him proudly and without shame.
7. When my kids cry in public, I don’t hide it
Meltdowns in the supermarket? Tantrums at birthday parties?
Yep, I have been there. But instead of feeling embarrassed now, I just kneel down, hug them, and help them regulate their emotions.
Kids are allowed to feel too.
8. I ask for help
There was a time I tried doing it all , no helper, no nanny, no parents just me.
And I completely burned out. I literally lost my sanity.
Now I ask. Whether it’s a family member, my helper, or my husband, I lean on my support system without guilt.
9. I cry in front of my kids 😿
Once, Aarav saw me crying and hugged me.
I told him, “Mumma is tired today.”
That simple moment created a deep bond. I want my kids to know that emotions are human ,even in moms. And I also explained him its ok to cry if you are feeling overwhelmed .
10. I take time for myself 🧘♀️
Even if it’s just 15 minutes ,I take it.
A hot cup of tea, a solo grocery run, or just silence on the balcony.
That little space reminds me that I matter too.
11. My house isn’t picture-perfect 🌟
Toys on the floor, clothes on the sofa, unwashed dishes , that’s what my house looks like on most days.
But it’s also full of giggles, hugs, and late-night cuddles.
That’s the kind of “beautiful” I choose.
To every mom reading this
You are not alone in your chaos.
You are not failing.
You don’t have to be perfect — you just need to be REAL
Let’s stop being ashamed of being human.
Let’s start embracing the beautiful mess that motherhood is.
💬 Drop a comment if you relate to any of this.
I would love to hear your story too.
And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @fussy_mom_n_happy_kid for daily stories, baby food tips, and real-life mom moments.
#rawmotherhood #momtruths #youareenough #momguilt #motherhoodunfiltered #gentlemotherhood #momlifehonest
True 😍
Thank you .