As my baby turned one a few weeks ago, I find myself reflecting on what has truly been the most transformative year of my life. Motherhood has stretched me, softened me, tested me, and expanded me in ways I never could have imagined. It’s not a journey you can prepare for with books or advice—it’s one you live, one breath and one milestone at a time.

Image taken by Towa Studios (@towastudios)

Here are ten things I’ve learned in my first year as a mom:

1. There’s no such thing as being fully “ready.”
No amount of research or preparation could have fully prepared me for motherhood. At some point, you just dive in and figure it out day by day. And that’s okay—there’s beauty in learning as you go.

2. Rest isn’t optional—it’s survival.
Sleep deprivation is real. I learned that rest doesn’t always look like a full night’s sleep; sometimes it’s a nap while the baby naps, a quiet shower, or even two minutes of deep breathing. Every bit counts.

3. My body is powerful—and different.
Pregnancy and birth showed me just how incredible the body is (read more about our home birth). But I also had to learn to honor the changes. My body may not look the same, but it has given life, and that’s a sacred kind of strength.

4. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
I used to think I had to do it all, but motherhood taught me the importance of leaning on others. Family, friends, and community have become vital parts of my journey.

5. Identity shifts are real.
Motherhood doesn’t erase who I was before, but it adds layers to my identity. I’m still me—just an evolving version, balancing personal dreams with the new role of being someone’s mom.

6. Little things matter most.
The giggles, the first steps, the quiet snuggles at 2 a.m.—they’re what make the hard moments worth it. Motherhood taught me to slow down and savor the simple things.

7. Guilt comes with the territory.
Mom guilt is real—whether it’s about working, resting, or making choices for the baby. I’ve learned to acknowledge it but not let it control me. Doing my best is always enough.

8. My partner and I are a team.
Parenthood changed our relationship. Some days tested our patience, but it also deepened our bond. Communication and teamwork have become more important than ever.

9. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
Taking care of myself—whether it’s skincare, a walk, journaling, or a hot cup of tea—helps me show up as a better mom. I can’t pour from an empty cup. Butterfly Gua Sha was my bestie through postpartum.

10. Love grows in ways you can’t imagine.
I thought I understood love before, but this kind of love is beyond words. It’s fierce, tender, unconditional—and it somehow keeps expanding every single day. Honey Baby was born from this love, as a gift to you and a reflection of my own journey. Becoming a mother has taught me how to care for her, for myself, and for the bond we share. It’s about taking deep breaths, surrendering to the unknown, and embracing this role with an open heart.

A Year of Transformation

Motherhood has been the hardest yet most beautiful year of my life. I’ve grown alongside my baby, learning to embrace the chaos, the joy, and all the little in-between moments. As we celebrate this first year, I’m reminded that the journey is only just beginning—and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Out of this experience, I’ve been inspired to create a baby care line as a tribute to my daughter and to the rituals that help me stay present and intentional in motherhood. I can’t wait to share more with you as Honey Baby unfolds.