Hey Mama!
Let me begin by saying that motherhood is probably the most exciting, scary, and fulfilling journey you’ll ever embark on. It is such an honor and privilege to be responsible for raising and nurturing God’s most precious gift! The time you’ll spend watching your baby grow and develop is indisputably the joy of a lifetime, but it can also be challenging.
When I had my son and even before that, I had no clue what to expect. After you’ve gone through labor and delivery and they set that precious baby in your arms, you’ll be flooded with a range of different emotions. The biggest for me was the feeling of “Oh crap, what do I do now?”. And that’s ok haha. It’s completely normal and please know that the feeling won’t last always. Becoming a mother is an ever-changing learning experience and you won’t have everything down to science on Day 1. If I’m completely transparent, you may never have it down to a science. But I would like to share with you a few things that I have learned and that have helped me tremendously!
Mother’s intuition is very real! – I can’t tell you how many times I’ve responded to my son and given him exactly what he has needed based on the type of cry or his temperament at the time. Intuition is a god-given knowing that you’ll feel deep inside of you. If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how often you’re spot on in what you’re feeling.
You will experience moments of frustration and being overwhelmed – Listen, I have absolutely been there. When your baby is crying uncontrollably, and you’ve done all you possibly can to soothe them. It’s super hard, but don’t give up and remember this is the only way your baby is able to communicate their feelings. But I promise, it will get better with time!
Never be afraid to ask for HELP! – This seems obvious in nature, but when you become a mother you immediately throw on your Superwoman cap. It’s instinctive to do so, but please know that you don’t have to carry it all. And I know that everyone’s situation is different, in terms of the help that’s available to you. But I encourage you, as much as possible take advantage of moments to secure a break. Even if it’s nothing more than taking a walk or relaxing in a bubble bath. It not only refreshes you physically, but it refreshes you mentally. I’ll talk more about Postpartum recovery in a future post.
Advice will come from all directions – I know this to be true, because you took time to read this post and I’m honored. But at the end of the day, your baby, your decisions. There’s no exact way to approach motherhood. Things that worked well for my son, may not work for your baby, and vice versa. However I would encourage you to keep an open mind and know there’s always room to receive insight from a different perspective.
I’ll close with this. Mama you are powerful, you are brilliant, you are beautiful and you are loved! Motherhood is so rewarding and I’m confident that you will be spectacular! Always know that you have a friend and resource in Kindal Erice!
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