When Parenting Became “Worth It” – Moments Shared by Redditors

In a recent discussion on Reddit, people shared their “When Parenting Became ‘Worth It'” moments, revealing that despite the thankless nature of the task, the level of responsibility, stress, and sleep deprivation exceeded their wildest imagination. Nonetheless, overcoming these obstacles can lead to one of the most life-altering and fulfilling experiences possible.

But when precisely do these incredibly satisfying times begin? When exactly does parenthood become “worth it”? This is exactly the question a Reddit parent has.

When do the gratifying and worthwhile portions begin? The Parenting subreddit inquired about u/OoklaIsMyHomeboy. “Since I’ve been a parent for more than six years, the daily tantrums, 6 a.m. wake-up calls, lack of my own free time, non-existent social life, and lack of my own friends are truly bringing me down. I’m not seeing any of the supposedly promised benefits.”

Some Redditors were quick to point out that the original poster’s (OP) issues—temper tantrums, a lack of free time, and a lack of social life—can be addressed. Setting boundaries, reaching out to trustworthy friends or family for assistance, and occasionally putting yourself, and your needs first can make all the difference in the world. But things like waking up at 6 a.m. and feeling less independent after having a child? Typical of the norm.

Setting aside some of OP’s larger concerns, parents can relate to those overpowering emotions of stress and exhaustion – at least occasionally. There is no denying how difficult parenting can be. The good days can be so good, but the bad days? Alertness is advised. It’s not simple to navigate the ups and downs of parenthood, what with sleep regressions, new developmental milestones, the so-called “terrible twos,” and testy children.

There will also be peaks and valleys. Reddit parents discussed what made it all “worth it” or when they finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel. These are a few of the greatest answers.

Other parents kindly reminded the OP that most of the exhausting aspects of parenting are transient.

“I’m not saying this to annoy any stressed-out parents, but if you’re about to become a parent, know that it’s not all stress and fatigue. Numerous things are merely phases, and those phases pass. It’s nice when your children express their affection for you and look up at you with a smile,” they persisted.

Redditor u/b-parker-balls wrote, “My 9-year-old is a tolerable human being, but holy sh*t, it was close for a time…”

As u/harpsdesire noted in a forum post, these moments of tiredness can feel overwhelming for any parent “My 3-year-old is frequently exhausting (and still doesn’t sleep through the night, so I am perpetually sleep-deprived), yet I adore his company. We’re still in the temper tantrum and demanding stage, which is natural for a three-year-old but certainly exhausting. Sometimes I want for a day without hearing any demands or complaints.” Yet, they wrote, “He is imaginative, witty, astute, and kind. Yesterday, he declared his love for me to be 116%. I’m not saying it’s always enjoyable and gratifying, but he’s a fantastic little person.”

While the focus may be on how to endure the difficult times, others were quick to point out that the joyful times will also be short.

“And it helps me to realize that every phase, both positive and negative, is transient. Their autonomy will increase, and you will discover more peace and liberty,” authored u/BuffBullBaby “I do not seek praise and approval from the children. I observe this in different contexts, including my feelings about my own parenting.”

As many have also stated, what is deemed gratifying is quite subjective. It could be a hug, a new memory or activity shared with your child, or their first “I love you.”

What sort of rewards are you anticipating? u/BeccasBump asked. “These typically take the shape of sleepy snuggles, seeing your child laugh till they’re sick at a joke they came up with, hearing their viewpoint on something and being blown away by the way they think, or even sharing their enthusiasm when they get a new toy.”

And lastly, one user provided some sage advice to assist the OP in understanding that sometimes the sweet things are not always that simple to attain or define:

“The incentives are typically scattered throughout,” u/bifff64gc commented. “But, I believe it relies largely on the child’s situation.” “If you have a very challenging child or lack support, it will be more difficult to find the positives among the negatives. When you’re sleep-deprived, and there’s no one else to help out, cuddling with a newborn is of little use.”

Although days are difficult and long, it is crucial to look on the bright side as much as possible and get assistance if you feel truly hopeless and depressed. Occasionally, you will be oblivious to the fact that the “worth it” moments are all around you, and you may miss them one day.

But what about tantrums and sleeplessness? No, I won’t miss them at all.

Meaningful articles you might like: Parenting Facts Nobody Talks About, 8 Parenting Issues To Discuss Before Baby, Parenting Techniques for the Busy Mom