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As I have entered my thirties, I have noticed that maintaining social connections has become increasingly challenging, especially since relocating abroad and becoming a parent. My husband and I welcomed our son into the world in Dubai, and when he was just two months old, we decided to move to Zurich, longing to raise him in Europe and be closer to our family and friends.

Our first year in Zurich was nothing short of intense. Not only were my husband and I adjusting to parenthood, but we were also navigating life in a completely new country. Whenever I move abroad, I am always eager to connect with others quickly, as I find it the most effective way to settle into a new city. However, since becoming a parent, socializing has taken on a whole new dimension.

I have always identified as more introverted, finding solace in my thoughts. While I do enjoy the company of others, I also require downtime to recharge after social gatherings. This need for solitude has become even more pronounced since the beginning of the pandemic, intensifying my social anxiety.

Becoming a mother has shed light on the additional challenges of socializing. While I strive to be fully present during conversations, caring for a toddler demands constant attention, leaving me feeling particularly drained after social outings.

Motherhood can indeed be isolating, particularly for introverts like myself. At the same time, it is easy to retreat into the comfort of family life and neglect social connections beyond discussions about your kids’ sleep and his poop consistency. Recognizing this, I have made a conscious effort to socialize more, aligning with my personality and motherhood schedule.

Here is my approach:

• Plan Ahead and Establish Fixed Dates: Planning allows me to be mentally prepared for social interactions. With a toddler in tow, logistical factors such as kids friendly place and easy transportation are crucial. Additionally, ensuring my son is well-rested, fed, and comfortable before outings is essential for smooth social engagements.

• Prioritize Quality Connections: When you have a toddler, time seems to slip away, leaving little for yourself. That is why I have become extra selective about who I spend time with. Investing time in relationships that energize and uplift me has become most important. As a parent, you will find that some friendships evolve; some endure, while others fade away naturally. Accepting this change has opened doors to new connections with fellow parents who share similar experiences and understandings.

• Occasionally Spend Time Alone: As I write this blog, our son is 19 months old. Going out alone or meeting someone without him still feels strange sometimes. Transitioning from constant childcare to solo dates has been a gradual process. However, I have come to appreciate the value of adult-only interactions. Taking time for myself allows me to fully engage in conversations without interruptions, revitalizing my social experiences.

To fellow (introverted) parents dealing with similar challenges, it is okay to feel this way. If you are not feeling up to meeting people right now, that is alright. Your well-being comes first. However, stepping out of your comfort zone can sometimes lead to enriching experiences and meaningful connections. Remember, you are not just a parent; you deserve to nurture your own happiness and fulfilment.