Motherhood is like stepping onto a tennis court for the most important match of your life. It’s exhilarating, challenging, and often leaves you wondering if you’re hitting the ball the right way. For tennis moms—balancing love for the game and the whirlwind of raising kids—the stakes are even higher. This journey of being both a parent and an individual with passions is a mix of heartwarming wins and unexpected challenges.
So, whether you’re holding a baby in one arm and a racket in the other or navigating the intricate game of family life, this blog is for you. Let’s dive into the game of motherhood—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
Love at First Sight? Not Always
We’ve all heard the stories of moms instantly falling head over heels in love with their newborns. And while that’s a beautiful sentiment, it’s not always the reality. Guess what? That’s okay!
When you first hold your baby, you might feel overwhelmed rather than overjoyed. The sleepless nights, the physical toll of childbirth, and the responsibility of keeping this tiny human alive can overshadow the fairy-tale bond everyone talks about.
But here’s the truth: love grows. It’s in the quiet moments, like when your baby gazes at you with trust and wonder, or when they snuggle into your chest after a long day. Those heart-melting moments are what transform the initial chaos into a love story that’s uniquely yours.
The First Two Months: Survival Mode
Let’s not sugarcoat it—the first couple of months with a newborn are like playing a never-ending five-set match with no breaks.
- Sleep Deprivation: You’re up every two hours, trying to figure out why your baby is crying. Is it hunger? Diaper? Gas? Or just because they can? Maybe you’re not even sleeping at all and are wondering who do other mothers survive this? I tried to tell myself that I was capable because all the mothers in the world have been capable and sometimes I got down on myself because I was struggling so much. I couldn’t get any sleep or figure out why my baby was crying so much. Was it colic? How to get rid of it? The witching hour every one was talking about is actually true? Even my parents didn’t know why he cried so much.
Btw a friend recommended me this book when I told her my baby was crying a lot, and it helped me understand so many things! I wish I had read it before giving birth, instead of spending so much time on thinking about what to put on my hospital bag! (They give you everything at the hospital) Every Mom should read this book to learn how to soothe their baby. It works! You can get it in the link below.
The Happiest Baby on the Block Book
The truth and comfort I found was that yes, every Mom has gone through it but, they have all struggled and felt as hopeless as I did! So it’s okay to feel like you can’t do it. Every Mom has! And in the end, as time goes by, even though it seems like the rough times never end, they do! They really do faster than you think, and the funny thing is that a few months later you barely remember them and even start thinking about having another baby. What on earth right? But it’s true! Stay positive and patient. It will all pass!
- Postpartum Recovery: Your body is recovering from childbirth, and it feels like someone handed you a tennis racket and told you to run a marathon without warming up. Everything hurts, you can’t think properly, you’re so emotional and you just keep wondering if this was what you wanted. Your life all of a sudden has changed dramatically and you don’t even have time for a proper shower. It feels dehumanizing! You wonder if you’re ever going to have time for yourself again, to even just do basic things! I endured many tough things in my tennis life, with injuries, traveling alone, losing matches… But never anything like this.
- Feeding Madness: Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, the constant demand can feel overwhelming. You’re breastfeeding or pumping non-stop, you kind of feel like a cow being milked every second, and it’s tough! It’s uncomfortable, sometimes even painful, but trying to find ways to optimize and making it as easy as possible on yourself was the thing that got me through. You read a lot of information out there and you want to be perfect, breastfeed for as long as possible, and for your baby to like your milk and never have colic… But in the end, all babies are different, and we as Moms are all different! So it’s okay to do whatever fits you best, and whatever you think it’s best for your baby. Just don’t be too hard on yourself! You’re already doing such a great job!
During this time, it’s easy to doubt yourself. But here’s the good news: it gets better. Just like in tennis, practice, and patience help you find your rhythm. Lean on your support system—your partner, family, friends, or even a fellow tennis mom who’s been through it all.
The Toughest Things About Being a Mom
Motherhood isn’t all sunshine and giggles—it’s also messy, exhausting, and downright hard. Let’s break it down:
1. Physical Exhaustion
The relentless cycle of feeding, changing diapers, and rocking your baby to sleep leaves little time for self-care. And if you’re a tennis, pickleball or padel mom, finding the energy to hit the court can feel impossible.
2. Emotional Overwhelm
You’re riding an emotional rollercoaster. One moment you’re in awe of your baby’s first smile; the next, you’re crying because you accidentally burnt your toast. Hormones and sleep deprivation amplify every emotion.
3. Losing “Me” Time
Remember those leisurely hours spent practicing your serve or catching up on your favorite show? Poof—gone. Your schedule revolves around feedings, naps, and diaper changes.
4. Mom Guilt
Taking time for yourself—whether it’s a quick game of tennis or a solo trip to the grocery store—can trigger feelings of guilt. Society’s pressure to be the “perfect mom” doesn’t help either. It’s okay to feel like you’re not ready, or equipped. We all feel this way at some point. But you’ll just get better as time goes by. You’ll learn not to be the best mom, but how to be your version of the best mom and what suits you best! You’ll figure out what you strengths and weaknesses are. We all have them!
Now, finally! Let’s get to the good part!
The Best Things About Being a Mom
For every challenge, there’s an incredible reward. Motherhood might be tough, but it’s also filled with moments that make your heart soar.
1. Pure Joy
Watching your baby hit milestones—like their first smile or taking their first steps—is pure magic. These moments remind you why every sleepless night is worth it. The way he looks at you. You know he needs you and loves you! How can he love me already? It makes your heart melt.
2. Unbreakable Bond
There’s something indescribable about the connection between a mother and her child. It’s as if your heart has sprouted legs and is now crawling (or running) around your house. I always ask myself? Is it really him? He was inside my belly not too long ago? How is it possible? It’s insane really. A miracle. 🙂 No matter how old he is, I still can’t believe he is here! It’s such an amazing feeling to know that my body was capable of creating a life. That so much love is possible.
3. Teaching Life’s Lessons
As your child grows, you get to be their guide—teaching them values, showing them the joys of your favorite game (tennis, of course), and introducing them to the wonders of the world.
4. Unconditional Love
Your child looks at you like you’re their hero. That unconditional love is the ultimate reminder that you’re doing an amazing job, even on the days when you feel like you’re barely holding it together. It makes you want to be better, it makes you do things you never thought you could. Suddenly you have all this energy to provide for him, to work, to exercise. You do it all, and you don’t even notice!
The Tennis Mom’s Playbook: Finding Balance
Being a tennis or an active mom means juggling your passion with the demands of motherhood. It’s a unique challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to show your kids the value of hard work, perseverance, and pursuing what you love.
Tips for ACTIVE Moms
- Schedule “You” Time: Block out time for a quick work out or a quick practice session. Even 15 minutes can recharge your energy and remind you of your individuality.
- Include Your Kids: Introduce your little one to sports by letting them watch or hold a mini racket or paddle. It’s never too early to share your passion!
- Ask for Help: Whether it’s a family member babysitting during a game of tennis, pickleball or padel, or a friend lending a listening ear, don’t hesitate to seek support. Being around people and loved ones helps more than you can imagine! Sharing the good and bad times is key to your wellbeing! Plus who doesn’t love having people you love also love your little one?
- Celebrate Small Wins: If you managed to get your baby to nap and squeeze in a quick workout—celebrate! Motherhood is about appreciating the little victories. Be happy and proud of everything you’re doing!
Managing Expectations: Be Kind to Yourself
Motherhood is a marathon, not a sprint. You’ll have good days where you feel like Supermom and tough days where everything seems to go wrong. The key is to manage your expectations and give yourself grace.
- Accept Imperfection: No one has it all together, no matter how perfect their life looks on Instagram.
- Celebrate Effort: Showing up for your child, even when you’re exhausted, is an achievement in itself.
- Take Breaks: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
The Heart of a Tennis Mom
As a tennis mom, you’re not just raising a child; you’re modeling resilience, discipline, and a love for life’s challenges. Whether you’re chasing balls on the court or chasing your toddler around the house, you’re teaching your child that passion and perseverance go hand in hand.
Motherhood might be the hardest “match” you’ll ever play, but it’s also the most rewarding. So, lace up your sneakers, embrace the chaos, and remember—you’re doing an incredible job.
Final Thoughts
The journey of motherhood is a beautiful blend of victories and challenges. For tennis moms, this journey comes with its own unique rhythm, but it’s also a testament to your strength and dedication.
So the next time you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath, pick up your racket or paddle (or your baby), and remember: you’ve got this. And just like in tennis, it’s not about winning every point—it’s about showing up, giving it your all, and loving the game.
Here’s to the amazing journey of motherhood—one serve, one smile, and one sweet moment at a time.
