Dear 20-year old me: Life's like scrambled eggs - messy, but worth every bite

A friend once asked me what advice would I give to my younger self in my 20's. Now, in my mid 30's (yikes how did we get here) here is some advice I would give myself as a woman, and as a mother.

Time flies when you are having....to pay bills right? It literally was just the other day and I was celebrating my 25 birthday, now 11ish years later I see how valuable and precious each moment is and equally how fleeting time can be.

Although we cannot get time back we can cherish the present by honoring our expierences, as well as sharing them with others. I would give 20 year old Titia some grace and tell her to keep these tips in her back pocket.

Advice to a mother:

Tip #1 - F*ck Mom Guilt

Now that I have your attention, buy that thing that you've always wanted. Splurge on a day at the spa or buy something that makes you feel your best. The reality of it is as a mother you are ALWAYS going to make sure your kids are taken care of, so buy the thing you deserve it.

Tip #2 - Be a Mirror

You get to be the parent that you always wanted to your child this is a gift. Whatever you have to do to be able to fulfil that, do it. (e.g. therapy, ask for help, create new memories and traditions.)

"So buy the thing, you deserve it." – Letitia Cherry

Tip #3 - Tik Tok - Literally this doesn't come with a dance routine

You will NEVER get these moments back when your children are little, so even when you are exhausted and at the end of your rope don't let that overpower you in the moment. Even if they don't remember the outburst or the shut down you always will.

Tip #4 - Fill Your Cup

It is ok to need a break! That is the hook right there (or whatever J Cole said) in order to be your best for your children, you have to be your best for you first. Ask for help from your village to support you to gain a little bit of downtime. If you don't have a village you can lean on, try adjusting your schedule and routines to carve out some "do not disturb" time where you reserve your capacity. (from your children and others wink)

Parenting doesn't come with a handbook

They certaintly weren't lying when they said that parenting doesn't come with a handbook. However it does come from our lived expierences and sharing with others the journey. I know I promised advice I would give 20 year old Titia as a woman, but join me in the next blog to scramble those eggs.

What advice would you give? I would love to hear from you!

Remember life is just scrambled eggs but keep striving to be an omelette!

Best,

LC

#onplanatatime

#justagirlinherthoughts