When preparing for motherhood, there can be a variety of emotions. Whether you’re excited or scared (or both!), it’s hard to know exactly what it will be like when the time comes. Being a mother is a beautiful experience, but like any new stage of life, it can be a major adjustment for many. With an abundance of books and resources at your fingertips, it’s a good idea to form healthy expectations and determine your style of parenting. Even then, motherhood is unpredictable!
No matter how many books you read and how many podcasts you listen to, the truth is that transitioning into motherhood – especially that first time around – can be a challenge. It’s difficult to fully prepare for the sleepless nights and dramatic learning curve. While we recommend taking time to research and utilize helpful parenting books and resources, no one can predict exactly what your baby will be like and how your body and mind will react to this beautiful, difficult, life-changing experience.
But don’t worry – you’re not alone!
The good news is most mothers have experienced the rollercoaster of emotions that come with this unique transition. As you navigate this new stage of life, here are a few tips:
1. Be Honest About How You’re Feeling
It’s ok to not be ok! If you’re facing baby blues or postpartum anxiety or depression, you’re not the first. This stage of life is different than anything you’ve faced before. You’re learning a variety of new skills, including accomplishing everyday tasks one-handed, quickly changing a diaper and reading your baby’s cues. So much is new in your life — all while your body is healing, you’re running on minimal sleep, your hormones are all over the place and your adjusting to a new schedule.
But take note: just because it’s a bit overwhelming doesn’t mean you’re a bad mother! Even if you’re dealing with a complex mixture of emotion — both joy and exhaustion, awe and overwhelm — you will grow to know your child and his or her needs. If you’re struggling with all of the new adjustments, it’s important to be open with your loved ones. And if you’re not sure who to talk to, Life’s Choices is here. So many women have been right where you are now, and you don’t have to walk new motherhood alone.
2. Give Yourself Time
It might feel like you’ll never feel normal again, but you will. Getting used to your new stage of life takes time, and just because it feels daunting at first doesn’t mean it will be forever. Those first few weeks often feel like you’re in “survival mode,” but be patient with yourself. You’re still healing, growing and learning, and you should be! When your child was born, a new mother was born, too. You’re still brand new to this new life, and it’s ok to let yourself be. Take it one day at a time, mama.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
None of us were meant to experience childbearing or motherhood on an island. When they say “it takes a village,” they’re right! Whether that village is your family, close friends, church or neighbors, it’s important to ask the people who love you for help when you need it! Maybe it’s holding your fussy baby while you take a nap, sweeping your floor or making you a meal. Or maybe it’s just being a listening ear while you process this transition. Whatever you would find helpful in this season, don’t be afraid to ask! And if you feel like you don’t have a village to help you shoulder the newness of it all, you’re not alone. At Life’s Choices, we’re here for you as you learn the art of motherhood.
LIFE’S CHOICES IS HERE FOR YOU
If you’re preparing to transition into this new stage of motherhood for the first time or if you’re in the thick of it right now, contact Life’s Choices today. We have a variety of free resources to help support you as you face this new stage of life.
No matter what you’re dealing with, remember that you are the best mother for your child. We would love to help you feel confident in this new stage, and we are here to support you!