Stacey Dooley, the award-winning British documentary filmmaker and television presenter, has recently opened up about her experience as a first-time mother. In an honest and candid interview, she shared her struggles and challenges of parenthood, which she underestimated before embarking on this journey.
Dooley, who rose to fame with her hard-hitting and thought-provoking documentaries, welcomed her first child, a son, in April 2021 with her partner and fellow BBC presenter, Kevin Clifton. The 34-year-old shared that while she was overjoyed with the arrival of her bundle of joy, she was also surprised by the difficulties that came with being a new parent.
In the interview, Dooley revealed that she had always been career-driven and never really considered motherhood until she met Clifton. She said, “I always thought I was too focused on my career to be a mum, but then I met Kevin, and everything changed. We both knew we wanted a family together, and I couldn’t wait to become a mother.”
However, Dooley soon realized that the reality of parenthood was far from what she had imagined. She admitted that she underestimated the challenges of taking care of a newborn, from sleepless nights to adjusting to a completely new routine. Dooley said with a laugh, “I thought I had it all figured out, but I quickly learned that nothing can prepare you for the sleep deprivation and the constant demands of a baby.”
But it wasn’t just the physical demands that caught Dooley off guard. She also struggled with the emotional toll of motherhood, especially during the first few months. Dooley shared that she had always been independent and self-sufficient, but suddenly, she found herself relying on others for help and support. She said, “It was a huge adjustment for me, to let go of my independence and ask for help. But I soon realized that it’s okay to not have everything under control all the time.”
Dooley’s honesty about her struggles as a new mother has resonated with many other parents, who have praised her for speaking out about the challenges of parenthood. In the interview, she also emphasized the importance of being open and honest about the realities of motherhood, rather than portraying it as a perfect and effortless experience. Dooley said, “I think there is so much pressure on new parents to have it all together. But the truth is, it’s not always easy, and it’s okay to admit that.”
Despite the challenges, Dooley also shared that being a mother has been the most rewarding experience of her life. She gushed about her son, saying, “He brings so much joy and love into our lives. I can’t imagine my life without him now.”
Dooley’s journey into motherhood has also taught her valuable lessons, which she is passing on to other new parents. She emphasized the importance of self-care and taking breaks, even if it means asking for help. Dooley also urged new parents to trust their instincts and not compare themselves to others. She said, “Every baby and every parent is different, and there is no right or wrong way to do things. Trust yourself and do what works for you and your baby.”
As Dooley continues to navigate through motherhood, she is also back to work, juggling her career and being a hands-on mother. She credits her partner, Clifton, for being a supportive and equal partner in their parenting journey. Dooley said, “We make a great team, and I couldn’t do it without him.”
Stacey Dooley’s honesty and vulnerability about her experience as a first-time mother have not only allowed her to connect with other parents but also inspired many to be more open and accepting of the challenges of parenthood. As she continues to inspire and educate through her documentaries, she is now also using her voice to encourage and support other new parents. We salute Dooley for her candidness and wish her all the love and happiness in her journey as a mother.