Don’t Be the First to Let Go of the Snuggle

I can’t stop repeating this phrase ever since I stumbled across it on Instagram:

“Don’t be the first to let go of the snuggle.”

These words struck me deeply.

Since 2022, I’ve been living in constant survival mode—doing whatever it took to make it through the day. My focus has been on completing tasks, chasing goals, and trying to “catch up” to where society says I should be at 27. Whether it was tackling chores, meeting deadlines at work, or making small steps toward long-term goals, I was always busy and always tired.

As a single mom to a busy toddler, the pace hasn’t slowed—it’s only gotten more chaotic.

We’re in the “terrible twos” phase, and I’ve noticed a shift in my daughter’s behavior. She’s been short with me lately and has started pulling away from affection. No lie, it hurts my feelings.

Then, that Instagram post appeared:

“Don’t be the first to let go of the snuggle.”

I started reflecting on all the times I cut short cuddles with my daughter to answer an email, finish a chore, or cross something off my to-do list. I’ve been physically present, but emotionally? I haven’t been fully there. Of course she feels distant.

My focus has been on putting us in a better position—providing for us financially, emotionally, and mentally. I’ve been chasing productivity, trying to make up for feeling “behind.” But raising her has reminded me of something important: life isn’t about how much I can accomplish in a day. It’s about the quality of the moments I share.

She doesn’t care if the dishes are done or if my inbox is clear. She cares that I’m with her—fully with her.

Learning to Embrace My Season

One of my favorite podcasts is the Slay Girl Slay Podcast by Ashley Leggs. Ashley recently touched on the idea of seasons in life. In one of her recent episodes she talked about understanding the timing of your life and recognizing what season you’re in. Are you in a season of sowing, where you’re planting seeds and working toward the future? Or are you in a season of harvest, where you’re reaping the rewards of your hard work?

That perspective helped me release the guilt I’ve carried about feeling “behind.” I realized I’m actually in a season of harvest.

But here’s the thing: this isn’t the kind of harvest I expected. It’s not monetary or about external achievements. My harvest is peace, joy, calmness, and no longer living in survival mode.

For years, I’ve clawed my way through life, made tough decisions, and done the hard work to regain stability and joy. I’ve sown the seeds, and now I’m in a place where I can bask in the harvest. I now realize It’s okay to slow down, to fully participate in life, instead of just moving through it. I’ve earned this stillness—it’s a gift I’ve worked hard for, and it would be unfair not to embrace it.

Learning to Be Present

I won’t lie: slowing down hasn’t been easy. I still catch myself rushing, caught up in the chaos of life. But I’m learning. I’m learning to let go of guilt, release the pressure to “do it all,” and trust that God’s timing is perfect, not society’s.

Most importantly, I’m learning to be present. To savor the snuggles, the giggles, and even the tantrums because these small moments are seeds too. The more I invest in being present with my daughter, the more our relationship will grow. I can’t wait to see the harvest of a strong mother-daughter bond born from the seeds I’m planting now.

A Gentle Reminder

If you’re feeling behind, overwhelmed, or stuck in “go mode,” I hope this serves as a gentle reminder:

Slow down.

Don’t be the first to let go of the snuggle.

Trust the season you’re in.

And remember, the day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit. Keep planting. 

P.S. I’m looking to add more podcast to my weekly rotation, what have you been listening too?