My experience with Polycystic Ovaries didn't deter my strong desire to become a mother. I aimed not just for one child but two, and I envision more in the future when the timing is right.

The instinct to nurture has always been within me, and I strive to embody the ideal mother I have always imagined. I am a living testament to manifestation in this regard.

Yet, I face challenges.

Every single day.

Life tests us—it’s a constant cycle of growth. Often, tests are misinterpreted as failures rather than opportunities to advance.

I embrace these challenges wholeheartedly.

• Bilingual upbringing? No problem—it's second nature, and I might just add French to the mix.
• Relocating at 11? A bit tough, but I’ll make new friends.
• Experiencing bullying? I’ll counter with kindness.
• Dealing with a cheating boyfriend? That’s on him.
• Childhood traumas? An ongoing effort.
• Battling PCOS? I’ll research and prepare for motherhood.
• Navigating “mother groups” with judgmental attitudes? I’m no longer in school—pass.

Sleep deprivation?

Well, it hit me hard.

Everyone has their unique journey. It’s how you respond to life’s tests that shapes your growth.

“Be Yourself; Everyone Else is Already Taken” — Oscar Wilde

Isn’t that a beautiful sentiment?

My four-year-old son, Andriel, adores playing superheroes, often dressing as Spin or Black Panther. I recently encouraged him to design his own superhero costume, believing other kids will soon want to follow his lead; he’s simply that incredible.

You must champion yourself.

You can truly be anything you desire. But remember, it will always be your unique self. While some factors may be beyond your control, they won’t hinder your achievements unless you allow them to. That aspect is manageable, yet we often overlook it due to impulsive reactions.

Ultimately, you are your own greatest ally, so rise to the occasion.

My Sleep, My Happiness

This is where my true test of motherhood and self began.

I was exhausted.

Not the type of tired that a cup of coffee could fix.

It was the kind of fatigue that made me doubt my ability to drive safely with my child in the backseat.

The kind of tired that was sometimes amusing, yet I knew I had to address it.

The kind that led my husband to find me cradling nothing in the middle of the night, mistaking it for breastfeeding my sleeping baby beside me.

Chronic fatigue becomes dangerous when you start to accept it as normal, learning to function on autopilot. It leads to a cycle of merely existing rather than truly living.

I nipped this issue in the bud before it spiraled out of control because that’s when you genuinely lose command over your life and become a mere survivor.

I realized my joy was slowly being stripped away during my firstborn's sleepless nights.

Yes, I still experienced moments of joy—I was undeniably my son’s mother.

Absolutely, I cherished my bright, smiling baby. However, my days passed by without me savoring the small, beautiful moments; I was preoccupied with sleep logistics. For everyone, including myself, because I was utterly drained.

My Main Motivation for Improving Sleep

Reconciling this has proven challenging, as many mothers seem hesitant to openly prioritize self-care beyond social media. It’s easy to say but harder to practice without judgment.

I dedicated myself to my son's sleep needs, often having him nap on me during the day and tirelessly working to ensure he slept through the night—at the cost of my own rest. In hindsight, I can see he wasn’t getting the sleep he required either. I had become so focused on fulfilling his sleep hours that I convinced myself he was getting enough rest.

Thankfully, Andriel’s sleep improved significantly once I began sleep training.

I often hesitated to admit that I needed to prioritize my own sleep and mental health for the sake of my child. My goal wasn’t merely to survive day by day, ensuring my son was fed, clean, and clothed. I aimed to enjoy our days together, not just count down until bedtime. (Yes, I still count the hours until bedtime four years later, just like most parents do—but it feels different.)

Now, I genuinely relish my time with my sons, thanks to establishing dedicated times for myself and for them. I’ve structured my life in a way that allows me to meet and exceed expectations for both my children and myself.

Mindful presence unlocks the potential for everyone to enjoy each day.

It transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Takeaway

When you’re merely getting by, everyday life feels mundane. I find joy in the sunshine and excitement in spotting a butterfly; the world becomes breathtaking when you engage with it purposefully.

Once I lifted the cloud of fatigue, everything sparkled, as if viewed through an HD Instagram filter. You can feel the thrill while doing dishes and catching sight of a hot air balloon in the sky.

This is why I chose to sleep-train my child.

I parent with intention so my child can live with purpose.

So, if you're a weary parent, grant yourself permission to make necessary changes to align your personal goals and live with elevated purpose. This will undoubtedly empower your child to thrive as well.

I became a Pediatric Sleep Coach because I recognized the vast number of parents eager for better sleep at home. Many simply don’t allow themselves the chance to improve their situation. I’m here to provide that permission if you struggle to give it to yourself.

I’ve assisted numerous families in transforming their lives, fostering deeper connections with their children, and practicing mindfulness throughout their parenting journey—not just in parenting, as we unlocked the power of sleep at home.

So, reach out if you seek assistance. You need a supportive ally who understands your path, and I'm here to offer insights to help your child meet their sleep needs independently, allowing you to embark on your own journey of transformation, starting with the essential foundation—sleep.

Sylvia Emokpae is a thriving businesswoman, wife, and mother, passionate about motherhood, self-love, and all things that foster abundance and growth.

Explore more of her work and follow her Baby and Toddler Sleep page on Instagram.