since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

For me I would have to say I always made everyone elses needs come first now I make my dds needs first regardless of who cant handle it. I get alot of things done in my own home now instead of accomodating everyone else.

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

I don't need all those clothes and shoes that I used to think were "indispensable" in my life.

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

I have so much more compassion for other people now. Not that I didn't before, but rather than saying, "W T F?" to the person who was nasty to me in the supermarket, I think, "They must be having a bad day."

Also, even though I obviously married JT because I loved him and wanted to be with him forever, I think it took having a baby for me to REALLY understand what forever is. I feel like I appreciate him so much more now and that I give him the benefit of the doubt even on his pouty days.

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

When I hear news stories about bad things happening to children, I feel more deeply for them than before.

I've also become less judgmental - for example, I saw an older kid in a stroller in the mall with a pacifier in his mouth. Before DS, I might have thought 'He seems a bit old for a pacifier.' Now I think, 'Who am I to judge? At least that kid is quiet and behaving!'

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

It took having DS for me to realize what family is all about and to figure out what matters most in life. It really is the small things, like a smile or laugh from DS, that make me stop in my tracks and say wow. My definition of love has changed.

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

I really have a different perspective on what is important. And, things that used to be a big deal to me aren't. I used to get mad at every little thing. Now, not as much. it's just not important.

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

I am definately more patient and let the little stuff roll off my back. I am way more understanding of my parents that I work with and how they deal with their children.

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

All of the above, along with a whole new respect for my parents!

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

I say "I love you" all the time when before it was something I had to think about saying first.

Re: since having a child in what ways have your perceptions of things changed?

I understand the idea of sacrifice so much more now. I can appreciate how my parents sacrificed for me, and I see how DH and I willingly sacrifice for our daughter and our family.

I have so much more of an understanding of time and how you should treasure each moment. There are times when I'm holding DD and she has fallen asleep in my arms and I'll be saying to myself out loud, "don't ever forget this, don't ever forget this."