Motherhood doesn’t look the same for every mom; but there’s one thing we all share: the constant learning, unlearning and rediscovering of ourselves as our babies grow. For this edition of Voice of Moms, we sat down with Puja Gupta (@imperfectmomwhotravels), a mom of three–Viraaj (17), Rajveer (11) and Saanvi (3)–each in completely different stages of childhood. From navigating different personalities to managing time, juggling work, and handling mom guilt, she opens up with honesty, warmth, and the kind of reassurance only another mom can offer. Whether you’re a new mom or deep into the journey, her truths will feel like a soft hug, a reminder that you’re not alone, and that you’re already doing more than enough.
1. How has each child changed your motherhood journey? What shifted by the time your second arrived?
With my first, I was constantly trying to get everything right. By the time my second came, I had learned to trust myself more. I wasn’t ticking boxes anymore, just being present. And with my third, I finally learned to slow down, breathe, and truly enjoy the little moments I used to rush through.
2. Amid all the travel and noise, how do you create quiet, connected moments with your kids?
For me, calm comes from the smallest things: bedtime talks, eating together, lying on the bed and chatting, or car rides with music. Even when I’m busy, I make sure each child gets a few minutes of “just us” time where they know they have my full attention.
3. As a mom of three, what caught you off guard that no one prepared you for?
I wasn’t prepared for how different each child would be. Their personalities, their reactions, the way they need love — all so unique. It showed me that I can’t parent them the same way, and that each one needs a different version of me.
4. We all feel mom guilt. What’s yours usually about, and how do you work through it?
I mostly feel guilty about not spending enough time with each one individually. But I remind myself that my kids don’t need perfection, they need love, and they need me to show up genuinely when I’m with them. I try to give myself grace on the tough days.
5. How do your kids’ different personalities shape your parenting? Are you a different mom with each?
Yes, completely. With my eldest, I’m more like a friend now. With my middle one, I’m the guide — steady, supportive, and always encouraging. With my youngest, I’m still the soft, protective mom. They all bring out different sides of me, and I’ve learned to embrace that.
6. When one child feels left out, how do you ensure all of them feel seen and loved?
It happens, especially when one is going through a phase or needs more from me. I try to balance it by doing little rituals like eating with one alone, reading to another, or stepping out with one for an errand. Small things, but they make them feel seen.
7. What would you tell moms finding it hard to make space for themselves in the chaos? Don’t wait for a perfect stretch of “me time.” Take tiny pockets. 10 minutes with your tea, a quick walk, a quiet shower with music. Small pauses can reset you more than you think. You deserve that space.
8. What would you tell the first-time-pregnant you — the nervous, hopeful version of yourself?
I’d tell her that she’s going to be okay. That motherhood won’t look like a plan but it’ll look like love, mess, growth, and moments that will shape her forever. She’ll find her way, even on the hard days. And she’ll be stronger than she ever imagined.
A Note to All Moms
Motherhood asks so much of us; our time, our energy, our patience, our hearts. And yet, we show up every single day, learning and evolving right alongside our children. Stories like Puja’s remind us that it’s okay to slow down, to not have all the answers, and to give ourselves the same grace we freely give our kids.To every mom reading this: you’re doing beautifully, even on the days you don’t feel it.
If you’d like to share your story with our Mama Tribe, DM us on Instagram at @softsens — we’d love to feature you.
