I often think that things are more difficult for me nowadays because I have children. I turn down work opportunities if they don’t offer the time flexibility I need as a parent. I skip adult socials because I either can’t leave the girls behind or it’s just too stressful to bring them along. I can’t seem to learn a new skill or stick to a fitness routine—because, well… kids! 🤷‍♀️

Motherhood feels like a tree I’m chained to—heavy with responsibility, yet full of life.

Every parent knows that raising little ones can really slow us down. It’s like joining a marathon while carrying a huge backpack and holding snacks in your hands.

While everyone else is focused on “just running and reaching the finish line,” a parent with adorable little kids is still running, still eager to reach the goal—but with plenty of stops along the way.

Because while we’re trying to reach our goals, we often have to pause—to give children snacks, change diapers, pick up the kids after class, comfort a crying toddler, book a pediatrician appointment, attend school events, or play with our little ones despite looming client deadlines.

This constant shift from “parent brain” to “my own person brain” can make it seem like we’re not achieving anything. It often seems like parenthood is delaying our progress. That’s why I feel frustrated when my toddler cries or when my kids suddenly get hungry (for the nth time) just as I’m rushing to finish an article. That’s why I get upset when I’m in the middle of a home workout and my clingy daughter insists on being carried.

But one day, while scrolling on social media, I read this line.

In a digital world filled with so much trashy content, I found a gem. For once, this piece of social media content actually made sense—it felt like a pep talk sent from Heaven to lift my parental spirit. This simple quote reminded me that being a mom has pushed me to spread my wings and soar.

On the surface, it may seem like I’m tied down by the responsibilities of motherhood. But the truth is, many of the achievements I’m proud of happened during this beautifully chaotic season of parenting. As I longed for more quality time with my children, I left the full-time corporate world to explore freelancing. Because I wanted to earn while caring for my kids, I pushed my naturally phlegmatic self to build my own content and PR business. Even though I am an introvert, I stepped out of my comfort zone to find clients and maintain professional relationships.

Moreover, my desire to earn an income while maintaining control over my schedule led me to pursue a quiet dream: becoming a college instructor. Little did I know that this part-time opportunity would reignite my passion for writing, communications, and the arts.

Sure, there are still many higher mountains waiting to be conquered.

But when I look back at the milestones I’ve reached, I’m reminded that it was my desire to be fully present in my children’s lives that gave me the courage to soar. Without them, I wouldn’t have found the guts to start my own business or pursue my quiet dream of becoming an instructor.

Yes, my little ones may be the reason my progress feels slow—but they are also the reason my progress is steady, focused, and sure. They inspire me to always act with intention and purpose.

So to every parent who feels like they’re falling behind, here’s a reminder that you are not. You are moving forward on a path designed by God uniquely for you. Keep showing up. Keep going. You are right where you need to be.