Another one  of Emily’s heartfelt journal entries, offering you a candid look into her journey towards parenthood, where Emily starts to feel unsure of her own identity and feels overwhelmed with expectations from others. 

Dear Diary,

The weight of expectations – it’s something that’s been resting heavily on my shoulders lately. Even though I haven’t held my baby in my arms yet, it feels like the world expects me to have it all figured out. From what I should eat to how I should plan my career, the questions and opinions come pouring in from every direction. Do this, don’t do that! One day someone tells me I am eating too much and another I am not eating enough. Apparently I can’t seem to get it right.

It’s as though I’m losing touch with my own identity, replaced by a chorus of well-meaning but unsolicited advice. “Will you breastfeed?” “When’s your return to work?” “Have you considered your birth plan?” It’s a never-ending barrage. Blah blah blah blah! 

But here’s the twist – it’s not just the outside world. My own mind is a whirlwind of doubt and uncertainty. I feel like I’m juggling a thousand puzzle pieces, yet I haven’t even glimpsed the full picture.

But you know what I’ve discovered? My frustration, my sense of being overwhelmed – it’s all rooted within me. And this, dear journal, is where the transformation begins. Because when you know what you don’t want, it’s a golden opportunity to discover what you do want.

Amidst this chaos, I’m finding clarity. I’m learning that it’s perfectly fine not to have all the answers right now. It’s okay to set boundaries with well-intentioned advice-givers. It’s okay to embrace this journey, even when it feels like uncharted territory.

With each passing day, I’m uncovering what genuinely matters to me and my growing family. And I want to remember that it’s perfectly acceptable to forge my own path, to make choices that resonate with my heart.

So, my message today is clear – in the midst of overwhelming expectations, listen to that inner voice. Trust my instincts and take comfort in the fact that it’s perfectly alright to be exactly where I are. Parenthood is a unique journey, and I have the power to shape it as I see fit.

As I write these words, I intend to embrace the unknown, for within it lies the opportunity to discover my truest desires.

You are the best listener, my dearest diary! 

Emily

Emily’s story reminds us of the feeling of overwhelmed by the expectations placed upon us, especially during the journey into parenthood. However, by shifting our focus from what we don’t want to what we do want, we can find clarity and empowerment in the midst of uncertainty.