As a wife, mother, and psychologist, I find immense joy and fulfillment in my roles at home and at work. Yet, there are moments when I crave more. And that’s okay. It’s okay to want more than being a mom and wife.

Motherhood is a beautiful journey, filled with countless precious moments. Being a wife means sharing life with someone you love deeply. Both roles are significant and rewarding. But sometimes, they aren’t enough to keep me wholly fulfilled. And I’ve come to understand that it’s perfectly natural to feel this way.

As women, we often place immense pressure on ourselves to find all our joy and purpose within our families. Society often tells us that being a devoted wife and mother should be our ultimate fulfillment. But we are multi-faceted individuals with diverse passions, ambitions, and dreams. It’s okay to want to explore those aspects of ourselves.

For me, photography has been a powerful way to express my creativity and connect with others. It’s a passion that brings me joy beyond my roles at home. Through my lens, I capture the raw, beautiful moments of life, helping families preserve their memories. It’s a reminder that we can pursue our interests and find fulfillment in various areas of our lives.

Balancing these different facets of our identity can be challenging. There are days when it feels like there simply aren’t enough hours to be everything to everyone and still find time for ourselves. But pursuing our passions, whether in our careers, hobbies, or personal growth, isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

As a psychologist, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is for mental health to nurture our own needs and desires. When we allow ourselves to explore and grow, we become more fulfilled individuals, which in turn makes us better partners and parents. Our well-being benefits our families too.

So, to all the incredible moms and wives out there: It’s okay to want more. It’s okay to seek fulfillment outside of your roles at home. Embrace your passions, chase your dreams, and remember that you are a whole person with unique aspirations. Your desire for more doesn’t diminish your love for your family; it enriches it.

You are not alone in this journey. I see you. I understand the complexities and the guilt that can sometimes accompany these feelings. But know that pursuing your passions and interests is not just okay—it’s necessary for your happiness and well-being.

Let’s celebrate the amazing women we are, in all our roles and pursuits. Here’s to embracing every part of ourselves and finding joy in every aspect of our lives.