Being a mother is not all pink and glitter! Motherhood can be a tough journey, especially when you experience being a mother for the first time. Many new mothers struggle to come to terms with their many responsibilities. As a result, it's not uncommon for new mothers to forget to take care of themselves. The key to finding joy in motherhood starts with your health. You have to look after yourself to be able to look after your child. In a previous article, we've mentioned the importance of maintaining your energy by prioritising rest, creating a balanced diet, staying fit, and focusing on your mental health. Now, we're going to tap into the guilt that many mothers feel towards their children.
Encourage your baby to socialise
Understandably, you want to spend all your time with your bundle of joy. However, there's nothing wrong with asking the grandparents to look after the child for a few hours or a day. Indeed, young children need to develop their social skills, which they can do when interacting with different people. Spending time with grandparents encourages toddlers to play and talk more. Even for babies, it can be beneficial to build a bond with other people outside of the mother. Don't feel guilty for leaving your child with the grandparents. It will support your child's emotional development. Additionally, you are not a superhero. It's okay to have a day off from time to time!
Reclaim your spare time
Life after motherhood will never be the same. As much as you want to dedicate yourself to your child, you also need time for yourself. Whether you want to relax for an afternoon or restart your career, it can be helpful to select a nanny agency you can trust. A nanny can provide your child with social rules, care and attention when you are not around. Motherhood doesn't have to be all about sacrificing your former self for your child. While you need to prioritise, you don't have to choose between your career and your family, for example. It's not uncommon for mothers to rely on nannies when they go back to work.
Accept that it's a learning curve
It doesn't matter how many books you've read about motherhood and parenting. It is a learning process. At first, you will get a few things wrong. Nobody knows instantly how to change a nappy or how to breastfeed. But, not knowing is natural and doesn't make you a bad mother. On the contrary, relax and enjoy the ride. Don't beat yourself up for little mishaps and mistakes. It will take time for you and your baby to get used to the new situation.
You're a parent, not a friend
As a parent, it can be hard to establish a clear relationship with your child. A lot of parents want to act as a friend to their children. However, children need boundaries to build their social skills. Telling your child off when they break those boundaries is your responsibility. While children might sulk or cry at first, it will benefit your relationship in the long term.
Motherhood is a beautiful experience that can expose you to new feelings. However, guilt is not a feeling that mothers should experience. It is okay to let other people help you raise a child, set boundaries, get things wrong, or want some me-time.
