It’s Never Too Late to be You (cont'd)

, why not?

Pick your favorite off your list and come up with reasons why you can or can’t still do it. Lack of time, lack of money or lack of support often impede our goals. If skydiving is your passion, but the budget won’t allow for it, think about ways you can save up slowly, or if you still feel your passion is too pie-in-the-sky, move to the next item on your list. If lack of time is your obstacle, think about ways you can make time – consider a babysitting swap, set your alarm an hour earlier or make the most of those precious naptimes. If you want to finish your degree but can’t possibly attend classes, consider the multitude of universities and colleges that offer degrees online – no longer are these simply the rip-off, money-making institutions of yesterday, many reputable state and private universities offer a variety of degrees online.

If you find that your passion just won’t fit in your lifestyle anymore (i.e. a month-long backpacking trip to the wilds of South America might sound fabulous on paper, but just isn’t practical for the average parent), don’t give up. Think of other things you can do right now that will feed your soul and give you personal satisfaction. So you didn’t join the Peace Corps when you were a 20-something – find a local grassroots organization that will allow you to spend a few hours a month helping your community, fulfilling a similar need to help others.

Whatever you do, find the time to continue to develop your sense of self, your personal perception of worth and feed your need for activities outside the realm of diaper changes and PTA meetings. You’re worth it, and every ounce of energy you invest in yourself will only enhance the kind of wife, mother and friend you can be. Take the time. It’s never too late to be you.

Eileen G. Martinez is a stay-at-home mother of three young boys. She is currently working on her first novel and enjoys gardening, cooking and karaoke. Eileen has a passion for freelance writing and volunteering in her community. Her contact email is eileengmartinez@gmail.com