Becca Maberly, a 46-year-old author, pregnancy, and postnatal expert, has recently shared a confession on Instagram that has resonated with many mothers. In a video, she admitted that she does not enjoy playing with her children or engaging in messy activities like crafting or baking. Despite this, she believes she is a good mother, and hopes to change the conversation around motherhood. Maberly stated that she feels awkward and nauseous during pretend play and finds baking with her children stressful. Instead, she prefers activities like kicking or throwing a ball with her children, taking them on adventures, or engaging in fun and silly conversations.
The video posted by Maberly has received positive feedback from other mothers, who appreciate her honesty and candor. Many mothers in the comments expressed relief at feeling seen and validated by Maberly’s confession. Some shared their own struggles with activities like playing Barbie or feeling guilty for not enjoying certain aspects of motherhood. Maberly acknowledged the societal pressure on mothers to enjoy all aspects of parenting, and hopes to break the taboo surrounding honest discussions about motherhood. She encourages other mothers to trust their intuition and not feel ashamed if certain activities do not bring them joy, emphasizing the importance of finding individualized ways to connect with their children.
Maberly’s call for a shift in the conversation around motherhood is rooted in her belief in the uniqueness of each parent-child relationship. She urges mothers to prioritize their own well-being and happiness, rather than conforming to societal expectations of motherhood. For those struggling with guilt or shame over not enjoying certain activities with their children, Maberly advises exploring different approaches and finding what works best for them. By sharing her own experiences and vulnerabilities, Maberly aims to create a supportive community where mothers can feel understood and supported in their parenting journey.
The pressure to be a perfect mother and enjoy every aspect of parenting can be overwhelming for many women. Maberly’s confession serves as a reminder that it is okay to have preferences and boundaries when it comes to engaging with children. By openly discussing her challenges and coping mechanisms, she is sparking a much-needed conversation about the realities of motherhood and the importance of self-care. Maberly’s message resonates with many mothers who struggle to meet societal expectations, offering them reassurance and permission to prioritize their well-being while raising children.
The online response to Maberly’s video reflects a collective longing for more honest and relatable discussions about motherhood. Her willingness to share her vulnerabilities and struggles has created a space for other mothers to feel seen and validated in their own experiences. By challenging the traditional narrative of motherhood and advocating for individualized approaches to parenting, Maberly is paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive community of mothers. Her message of self-acceptance and trusting one’s intuition resonates with many women who are navigating the complexities of motherhood while prioritizing their own well-being.
