The girls have a photo shoot later tonight, and I’m starting to get nervous. I’m really excited to work with the photographer, a close childhood friend, and I can’t wait to have more professional photos. I’m just not looking forward to the unknown. It’s kind of the way I feel about getting on an airplane with my little ones, but less intense.
Will everyone behave? Will I bring enough snacks? What if I forget diapers? What if someone has an accident? What if, what if, what if? It’s amazing how we can work ourselves up over something that hasn’t even happened yet. My kids haven’t even woken up from their nap, and I’m already freaking out over the next couple of hours.
I’ve found that a large part of motherhood is choosing to relinquish anxiety. It is an absolutely conscious, intentional decision. There are so many things that can go wrong, but I just refuse to live in that space. I won’t be worried about my kids all of the time because I simply can’t handle the stress. I would rather focus my energy on hoping for a positive outcome than dwelling on all of the negative possibilities.
But that’s me. We all have a way of approaching motherhood that works for each of us, individually. What works for me, may or may not work for you and vice versa. Do what feels good to you and follow your instincts. A mother’s intuition is one of our greatest assets.
Jacqueline Pinchuk 