When I had my first child, I thought I would be much more social. But I needed to be in my own bubble—in symbiosis with my baby.

He took up a lot of my time, but in a good way. Today, I know that it's completely normal to need time to adjust.

I was one of the first in my group of friends to have a child. It was difficult for my friends to understand and for me to explain that my priorities had changed.

Now that several of them have children themselves, they know what it's all about. You just check out for a while.

Today, we share our experiences and have found a common language about becoming parents.

In a month, I will give birth to my second child. I worry a little less and enjoy it more because I'm not completely new to it this time.

I've also gotten better at setting boundaries and asking for help. Now I take it more chill, and I have a wonderful husband who takes care of me.