They say motherhood is a gift. I have to agree wholeheartedly. It’s the most challenging job in the world, yet it’s also the most rewarding. Here are the five things I appreciate most about being a mom.

1. A deep sense of fulfillment

When I was pregnant, I thought that being pregnant was the hardest part of motherhood. There were a lot of sacrifices and a lot of limitations. But after I gave birth to Kyle, that’s when I experienced how hard it was to take care of a newborn, and to keep taking care of him until he’s grown up. Each stage is a different experience, and the previous stage doesn’t really prepare you for what’s next. It’s extra challenging for first time moms, because you have no idea what you’re doing. Before I had Kyle, I never imagined the things that I would or could do now that I’m a mom. But no matter how hard things get, as a mom, you make it through. And making it through the tough times gives me that sense of fulfillment.

2. Greater appreciation of the simple things

My previous world revolved around my businesses. It was all about work, work, work, and more work. When Kyle came, he helped me appreciate the small things in life. I became more in tune with my inner child. I used to be so serious, but now I get to be silly and goofy with my son. I’d do things like make funny sounds, or even be corny, and be a good sport if Kyle wants to do fun things. Small things make kids happy, and I began to appreciate those things because of Kyle. Kyle is my favorite stress reliever. I realised that as an adult, we sometimes get bogged down by responsibilities that we forget to appreciate life and the simple joys like a bar of chocolate. Being a mom reminded me to find joy in the small things.

3. Being the most important person to someone

I’ve always been very expressive with Kyle and I constantly tell him I love him. In return, he became really affectionate with me. He’s sweeter with me than his dad, and it’s apparent that Kyle adores me. He has a special smile whenever he sees me – his eyes sparkle and the way he says “Mommy!” makes me feel like his day is complete by just seeing me. It’s my kiss he asks for when he’s in a lot of pain or has an injury. Even though the pain is still there, he will say he’s okay because “Mommy kiss me already.” Kyle really makes me feel like a VIP.

4. Feeling complete

A child’s love is unconditional. Receiving that kind of pure, sincere love makes you feel complete as a mom. It motivates me to become all that my son wants me to be. Kyle makes me feel happy when I’m sad, he makes me feel I’m enough when I am feeling inadequate. There are some things I might question about my life, but when I see Kyle, those questions fade away. Seeing him makes me believe that everything is and will be alright.

5. Becoming the best version of myself

Motherhood teaches me to be selfless. As a mom, you’re nurturing your child to become a good person. You have to be a good role model. That includes having a lot of patience, instilling discipline, putting others first, being responsible. And it’s funny how it just comes out even when you don’t try. When I thought I was already running out of patience, circumstances will make me realise that I still have a bit more left. You don’t force yourself to be better. It’s a natural instinct to improve, for your kids. It became a priority for me, because I know that the things I do will affect Kyle. I start to put him first. Having a child means having that constant internal push towards more of the good things you want your child to become.

Motherhood really brings value into my life the way shoes, bags, or travels do not. It nurtures my inner being in ways that are difficult to describe. How about you? What are your favorite things about being a mom?