Embracing Motherhood: Thriving, Surviving, and Being Gentle with Ourselves

Ok, I know it's not as jazzy or sparkly as a long new year new you list but hear me out...

As the new year arrives many of us find ourselves reflecting on the year that has passed and setting new goals for the year ahead. For new mothers or parents of small children, the pressure to make resolutions and strive for personal growth and success can feel daunting and overwhelming. The truth is, parenting in itself is a full-time job, and the early years of a child's life can be some of the most demanding and challenging.

So, this year, let's shift our mindset and focus on survival, being gentle with ourselves, and thriving in motherhood.

Survival Mode: Embracing the Chaos

The early years of motherhood can be chaotic, with sleepless nights, round-the-clock feedings, and the constant juggle of caring for a little one. In the midst of this chaos, it's important for new mothers to give themselves permission to embrace survival mode. This means letting go of the pressure to have it all together and accepting that some days will be about simply getting through the day. It's okay to let the dishes pile up, to order takeout instead of cooking a gourmet meal, and to prioritise rest whenever possible.

😻 Self-Care

Self-care is crucial for new mothers, but it doesn't have to be elaborate or time-consuming. Taking a few minutes to indulge in a warm shower, savouring a cup of tea in silence, or even just sitting down to breathe can make a world of difference. By prioritising small moments of self-care, new mothers can replenish their energy and find moments of peace amidst the chaos.

Being Gentle with Ourselves: Embracing Imperfection

It's easy for new parents to fall into the trap of comparing themselves to the impeccably curated images of motherhood portrayed on social media. The truth is, no one has it all figured out, and it's okay to embrace imperfection. Instead of striving for an unattainable standard of perfection, let's focus on being gentle with ourselves and giving ourselves the grace to make mistakes and learn along the way.

Meal Preparation🥳

Fun fact this entire post was prompted by me making a batch of egg muffins for the week ahead ...Meal preparation can be a daunting task for new parents, but it's okay to embrace shortcuts and simplicity. Instead of feeling pressured to cook elaborate meals every day, new parents can focus on preparing easy, nutritious meals that require minimal effort. This might mean stocking up on healthy snacks, preparing freezer-friendly meals, making double of whatever it is you cook so you have extra for the freezer,or even asking for help from friends and family.

Thriving in Motherhood: Finding Joy in the Small Moments

Amidst the challenges of early parenthood, there are also countless moments of joy and love that make the journey worth it. Thriving in motherhood means embracing these moments and finding joy in the small, everyday experiences with our children. It's about celebrating the tiny milestones, cherishing the giggles and cuddles, and finding beauty in the chaos.

Example: Finding Support! Thriving in motherhood often requires reaching out for support. Whether it's joining a parent support group, seeking guidance from experienced parents, or simply connecting with other mothers, finding a supportive community can make a world of difference. By building a network of support, new parents can navigate the challenges of early parenthood and find encouragement and camaraderie along the way.

In conclusion...

As the new year arrives let's shift our focus from making grand resolutions and striving for personal growth to embracing survival, being gentle with ourselves, and thriving in motherhood. By prioritising self-care, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in the small moments, new mothers and parents of small children can navigate the early years of parenting with grace and resilience.

Remember, the journey of motherhood is a marathon, not a sprint and it's okay to take each day as it comes, with a spirit of gentleness, self-compassion, and gratitude for the privilege of nurturing a new life.

Tell me... how do you plan on making parenting easier or less stressful this year?