Being a mom is the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life. Although it does not come without its trials and tribulations. As a first-time mom, I am just learning as I go! So, I thought I would share 5 important things I have learned as a first-time mom, with the hope of helping someone else out there!
Motherhood can sometimes be a lonely place, and I just want to let you know that you are not alone!
A mother’s love endures through all
Washington Irving
5 Important Things I Learned As A First Time Mom
5 Important Things I Learned As A First Time Mom
Follow Your Instincts
When you become a new mother, it seems like everyone has something to say. Do this, do not do that. Everyone seems very comfortable to voice their opinions to you. No matter what you hear, whether it be from someone you know, a book, a course, or someone online, do what feels best for you!
I have learned that no one knows my baby better than me, and I know what she needs! I take everything I hear with a grain of salt. Sometimes it is helpful information and other times I just let it go right over my head.
Following my own instincts with my baby has been so freeing, and makes motherhood all the more enjoyable!
Cuddle That Little Baby
I have heard people say that you should not hold your baby too much, you could spoil them or they will only ever want to be held. Well, I will hold my baby as I see fit! This goes right along with following your instincts. If you want to hold your baby more often, do it! If you want to lay your baby down, do it! Do whatever feels right for you!
I love to hold and cuddle my little baby! She is already 8 months old and is so much bigger than when she was born! I know she will not want to be held like this forever, so I am cherishing this time that I have now!
Give Yourself Grace
This has been a very important one for me! I have noticed that I give myself a hard time sometimes. Whether it be about being a good enough mom, ‘getting my body back’, cleaning the house, and everything else that could possibly pop into my head!
Remembering what my body did for me is so crucial for myself! I created life! It is just such an amazing thing! It took 9 months to grow this healthy baby, I need to give myself grace and the time to heal. ‘Getting your body back’ is just such a dumb thing in my opinion. There are so many other important things in life.
I have learned that giving myself grace, and not letting everyday tasks seem so important has helped my mental health so much. It can feel overwhelming with all of the stuff that we have to do.
I know that if I am trying my best and my baby is happy and healthy, that I am doing a good job. Nothing else really matters at that point.
Find Support
Becoming a mother can be one of the most controversial things. Everyone has an opinion on what is correct and what is not when it comes to parenting. It has been so helpful for me to find people who are like minded and help me to not feel alone.
Personally, sleep training does not work for my family. However, everywhere I look for support on sleep that is what is suggested. Like putting your baby down in their crib ‘drowsy but awake’. What the heck does that even mean!? I know this works for some families, and I am so happy that it does! But finding other mothers who do not sleep train their babies and feed them to sleep has been so comforting.
Social media can be such a great tool! This is where I have found other moms sharing their stories and what has worked for them and what has not. I may not know these women, but I relate to them so much! Feeling supported has helped me to be a better mother. For I know that when I am feeling stressed, baby feels stressed. So, knowing that I am doing what I believe is right for my baby makes me feel so much better. It is just a cherry on top to have the support of others who are doing the same!
These are some lovely accounts that I like to follow on Instagram!
Ask For Help
For me, it sometimes feels like I have to do it all when it comes to motherhood. I have learned that it is okay to ask for help. I still need to take time for myself. I am able to be a better mother when I take time for myself, therefore feeling better myself.
I have people that I trust to take care of my daughter, and they are always so happy to help out! I would suggest getting someone to help if you can! Whether its a spouse, parent, friend, whoever! Do not forget that you are important! Your health and wellbeing are a priority and always should be!
5 Important Things I Learned As A First Time Mom
There are so many important things I have learned as a first time mom, it was hard to narrow it down to my own personal top five! I hope this helps you in some way, and perhaps lets you know that you are not alone!
Supporting mothers during this challenging time in our lives is so important! I hope to inspire and lift people up! There is so much good from being a mother! Remember you are doing a great job!
Until next time!
ps. Be sure to check out baby registry must haves and nursery inspiration!
