Why I don't Identify as a Mother or a Wife

A common interview question for teachers is, "Tell me about yourself. Who are you?" I consistently answer with, "I am a world traveler and educator." Ever since I became a mother of a beautiful, vibrant, intelligent girl, I knew I didn't want to be known as just her mother. As an educated career driven female, I'm so much more than just a wife or a mother. I'm an individual. I have my own opinions, hopes dreams and goals.

I do not want people to remember me as Baby Girl's mother or Greg's wife. I want them to remember me as Chrys, the world traveler, and educator who aspires to be an international school teacher. And, thus far, I have done an outstanding job with ensuring that my individuality is intact. I know what you're thinking; why wouldn't I want to be known as Baby Girl's mother or Greg's wife? Well, it's simple, Baby Girl is going to be grown one day, and perhaps my marriage will not always be. I want people to understand and know that I am so much more than just a wife and a mother. I am an individual.

I don't knock women that want others to know them as a wife and a mother. You do you boo. I just hope those women understand, that current state, will not last forever. Also, I want my own daughter to know that nurturing her own hopes and dreams will make her a better person. I want to set an example for her to follow. I want her to be an individual first and everything else second.

How do you identify yourself? Do you preserve your individuality (as a woman)? Or have you delved into the life of being a wife and mother and see no turning back?