Reflections of Motherhood: The Impact of Miley Cyrus' 'I Used to Be Young' on Rediscovering Myself

As I cradled my baby one quiet evening, an unexpected wave of nostalgia washed over me. It wasn’t just a yearning for my past; it was deeper, rooted in my very identity. At that moment, Miley Cyrus’ song “I Used to Be Young” played softly in the background, and the poignant lyrics struck a chord: “I know I used to be crazy; that’s ‘cause I used to be young.” Tears streamed down my face as I reflected on who I once was.

Listening to that song not only reminded me of my wild and carefree days but also highlighted the stark contrast of my life now as a mother. I realized how much I miss being that spirited version of myself who danced under the stars and embraced spontaneity in every adventure.

The Longing for My Younger Self

Becoming a mom is one of the most beautiful yet transformative experiences in life, but it often comes with unexpected sacrifices. When I first held my child, my priorities shifted dramatically, and the freedom I once enjoyed felt like grains of sand slipping through my fingers. The memories of my past self, like flickering film reels, often leave me wishing I could relive those carefree days.

Miley's song pulled at my heartstrings in a profound way. The lyrics reminded me of spontaneous road trips, late-night outings, and laughter flowing effortlessly with friends. For example, there was that unforgettable summer spent backpacking across North India with friends, where we danced in the streets of Joshimath at 2 AM in the cold nights of winter. Those youthful, daring moments feel distant now, replaced by responsibilities and familiar routines.

As I listened, I realized I never anticipated this sense of loss—the knowledge that I would miss myself after stepping into motherhood. It was a bittersweet acknowledgment that the wild person I once was might have to take a back seat.

Balancing the Present with the Past In a Miley Cyrus way

Reflecting on my past, I also understand that I do not regret my journey into motherhood. The love I have for my child fills my heart in ways I never imagined. Still, there’s a voice inside that craves those exhilarating experiences of youth, yearning to carve out an identity beyond “mom.”

Miley’s lyrics resonated deeply, highlighting that it’s okay to feel an ache for the past. This bittersweet sentiment is natural in life’s journey. The song evoked not just sadness; it sparked a desire to reflect on who I am today and how I can incorporate some of that wild spirit into my life now.

By acknowledging the duality of my identity—being both a mom and an individual ready to embrace life—I recognize that I can still seek joy, adventure, and spontaneity, albeit in new forms.

A New Kind of Wildness

Motherhood may have tamed some aspects of me, but it also encourages a different kind of wildness: the bravery to embrace challenges and face fears head-on. The memories of drinking cocktails with friends at sunset can evolve into moments spent reading to my child or enjoying sunset walks in the park.

Just as Miley Cyrus expresses in her song, my ‘crazy’ has shifted but has not vanished. It has transformed into a passion for instilling a sense of adventure and wonder in my child, allowing us to explore together. This is the essence of motherhood: redefining what it means to be ‘young’ and discovering how to channel that exuberance into my current life.

A mother joyfully playing with her child in nature.

Embracing Change and Finding Joy

While I frequently reminisce about my younger years, it's crucial to stay grounded in the joy of now. I find comfort in creating new memories, realizing that I can share laughter, embrace silliness, and forge adventures for my child—all while inviting my past self into the present.

These moments reveal how music—like Miley Cyrus’ heartfelt lyrics—can unlock pathways to introspection and help us better understand ourselves. Songs such as “I Used to Be Young” are not mere reminders of who we were; they invite us to explore who we can continue to be.

An Evolving Journey

In the beautiful journey of motherhood, I have discovered it’s normal to miss the wild, carefree version of myself. Miley Cyrus’ song provided a much-needed space for reflection, allowing me to honor my past while confidently stepping into my current role. While the days of wild nights and spontaneous adventures may seem far behind, they have shaped who I am today: a fun-loving, adventurous mom eager to nurture the same spirit in my child.

So, here’s to cherishing memories, redefining ourselves, and embracing new chapters in our lives. Motherhood brings many changes, but it also presents incredible opportunities for personal growth and joy. As we navigate this journey, let us create room for both our past selves and our ever-evolving present.