Partly it depends on your partner's situation - parental leave etc. But, in whatever case, yes, almost everything changes.
Your free time will be minimal and your sleep will be disrupted. The sleep issues largely resolve after the first 6-12 months. But the need to structure your life around the needs of your child will remain to a greater or lesser extent forever. But your life will change in ways that you can't possibly anticipate and if you're open to whatever happens, the surprises can be a source of great joy.
Not long after my daughter was born, 14 years ago, I completely left my career. We had saved a lot and didn't need two incomes. I stayed home with my daughter. Because she showed a lot of musical talent early on, I became a homeschool teacher and full-time caregiver so she could practice. Next week she is heading off to a full-time arts boarding school as a violin major.
I (mostly) enjoyed what I did for a living, and I enjoyed my extra-curriculars. But pivoting to looking after her needs has been infinitely more gratifying. So I guess I'd say, be open to a path that looks completely different that what you can see down the road right now.
Your free time will be minimal and your sleep will be disrupted. The sleep issues largely resolve after the first 6-12 months. But the need to structure your life around the needs of your child will remain to a greater or lesser extent forever. But your life will change in ways that you can't possibly anticipate and if you're open to whatever happens, the surprises can be a source of great joy.
Not long after my daughter was born, 14 years ago, I completely left my career. We had saved a lot and didn't need two incomes. I stayed home with my daughter. Because she showed a lot of musical talent early on, I became a homeschool teacher and full-time caregiver so she could practice. Next week she is heading off to a full-time arts boarding school as a violin major.
I (mostly) enjoyed what I did for a living, and I enjoyed my extra-curriculars. But pivoting to looking after her needs has been infinitely more gratifying. So I guess I'd say, be open to a path that looks completely different that what you can see down the road right now.