How does having a baby change you?

Ok guys lately, I’ve been grappling with feelings of stagnation, often described as a midlife crisis. Recently, my partner and I learned that we are expecting a child. This news has prompted me to reflect on the potential impact of parenthood. For the parents here, How did the arrival of your child influence your life? and In what ways did becoming a parent affect your sense of purpose and fulfillment?

I would greatly appreciate your insights and experiences.

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REMsleep · 41-45, F

You must become more selfless. Your time will belong to the baby, your finances will be used by the baby, and you will have way less sleep for the first year. You will have no predictable down time to just relax so enjoy it now but as your baby gets older, if you enjoy parenthood it is amazing.
If you treat you child good they will love you and will be a mirror to who you are but also will be this new person learning and growing based on what you teach them and expose them to
It can strain relationships especially during the first year because they baby needs someone 24/7 and your life will never be exactly the same but you will find that this is OK. In fact it might end up perfect.
You can't totally prepare because it's all so new.