Motherhood is a milestone in a woman’s life that throws the hardest hurdles while simultaneously soothing those hurdles with pure joy that only a child can bring. As the years go by, more and more women are climbing the corporate ladder while balancing the demands of motherhood and family life. Santanio Husi is the Executive Assistant to the Chairman and Co-Founder of the FirstRock Group, and she shares with us how her journey into motherhood has been thus far.
Q. What has been the hardest period of motherhood for you and how did you deal with it?
The hardest period of motherhood for me so far was between 9 months and 3 years old. My daughter started exploring her independence at this time and this was challenging for me because I had to accept that she will eventually need to learn things on her own. It was also physically challenging when she started walking and picking up things around the house, because then I had to be following her every step to ensure she wasn’t picking up things that could be dangerous for her.
Q. What is your best advice for moms?
I would advise every mother, especially first-time mothers, to just do what works for you. Everyone will try to add their “two cents” and tell you “the right way” to be a mom but at the end of the day, you have to create your own parenting path and trust your gut. The most important thing is that your child is healthy, nurtured, loved, and taught to be a productive and kind human being. So, choose whatever method works best for you.
Q. What happy memory of your kids will you cherish forever?
I have countless happy memories with my daughter, but to date my happiest memory of her remains the first time I laid eyes on her. Looking at this tiny human being, the most perfect little girl in my eyes, knowing that I brought something so precious into the world is a memory that is forever etched into my brain and in my heart.
Q. What is your biggest regret as a mother if any?
I can honestly say I have no regrets being a mother. This does not mean that I am in any way perfect or that life is perfect. It simply means it is hard to have regrets because I am so incredibly fortunate to have a support system who I can always depend on. After all, it truly does take a village to raise a child. I am also very fortunate to be able to provide all that my child needs and desires.
Q. What has this experience taught you about yourself?
This experience has brought out my inner strength, it has taught me patience (something I lacked previously), how incredibly selfless I am, and how much love there is to give. Having a child also shows you just how limitless love is. When you think you’ve given all the love there is to give, you have a child, and the “reserve” kicks in and you find a new burst of love to share, because I love my daughter a little more every day.