Feeling Lost After Kids? How to Rediscover Yourself in Parenthood | Matrescence | Patrescence | Ep. 47 | [Rediscover You Series 1/3]

You know that moment—you’re cleaning up after your kids, scrolling on your phone, and suddenly it hits you: “Who even am I anymore?”

Maybe you used to have hobbies, dreams, and interests. But now, your whole identity seems wrapped up in being a parent. You love your kids, but… where did YOU go?

If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re not alone. This parenthood identity crisis is more common than we talk about. And the truth? It’s not your fault.

🎙️ In today’s episode, we’re diving into:

• What exactly is matrescence and patrescence (aka the massive identity shifts that happen when we become parents)
• The hidden reasons behind postpartum identity crisis and why so many moms and dads feel like they’ve disappeared
• How to stop feeling like you’re losing yourself in parenthood
• The difference between parental guilt and true self-sacrifice—and how to release the shame
• How to start rediscovering yourself after parenthood in small, guilt-free ways

It’s so easy to get stuck in survival mode—especially if you’re a stay-at-home parent feeling unfulfilled or struggling with the transition to parenthood. Maybe you thought you’d naturally “figure it out,” but instead, you’re feeling lost, exhausted, and like you don’t even recognize yourself anymore.

But here’s the thing: You are more than “just a parent.”

🌿 So, how do we start reclaiming YOU?

✅ Shift your mindset—Parenthood and identity CAN co-exist. You don’t have to choose between being a great parent and being you.
✅ Rebuild your confidence—Finding purpose outside of parenthood doesn’t mean you love your kids any less.
✅ Let go of the guilt—Overcoming guilt and shame starts with recognizing that self-care isn’t selfish.
✅ Take small, intentional steps—Whether it’s a parental transformation or simply making time for yourself, it’s about reconnection, not reinvention.

Parenthood changes you. That’s inevitable. But losing yourself completely? That’s not a requirement.

So, if you’re feeling lost as a parent, struggling with balancing parenthood and career, or just wondering if you’ll ever feel like yourself again—this episode is for you.

💌 I’ve also put together a free guided journaling exercise to help you pinpoint what’s missing and start reclaiming YOU today. You can grab it through my newsletter—I’ll share the details at the end of the episode.

🎧 Hit play now, and let’s start the journey back to YOU.

#parenthoodidentitycrisis #feelinglostasaparent #rediscovery #matrescence #patrescence

 

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Full Transcript HERE.
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Markella Kaplani, M.A.
Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
Parenthood & Relationship Coach
www.markellakaplani.com