>1< Don't let anyone criticize you; just because you're young, doesn't mean you're not capable of being a mother. Don't listen to anything negative that ANYONE has to say. If you let what others say get to you, it's possible that you'll start doubting yourself and there is no need for that. No one has the ability to tell you what you can and cannot do. Prove all the non believers wrong.
>2< Don't dread your life; benig upset and hating everything you have to go through is not going to get you anywhere. Although this may have came sooner than you would have liked, it's time to face reality because what is done is done. Start enjoying that precious life you made. If you don't start now, you'll regret it later. They grow a million times faster than you think and before you know it, they'll be out your door.
>3< Start your game plan; through the long nights, dirty diapers, and agonizing cries, it's easy to lose your way. But make it a prioity to stick to a set of goals. Make a list and hang it on your mirror so that you see it every morning. Write down what you believe your purpose as a mom is, how long you want to stick to breastfeeding, things you hope to teach your baby, etc. Once you have made your list, put it into action. You want your son to be resposible and independent by the time he moves out? Start a chore list for him to work on when he is able to. You want your baby to meet his age specific goals? Make sure you work with him every day on things such as tummy time. and so on.
(4) Find a support system; look for people that you can turn to if you are in need. People that you can ask mommy questions to, People that can help you out if you start getting stressed. Also, step out of your comfort zone and reach out to other young mommies. Motivate and support them and share your good moments and bad moments with each other. After all, they know exactly what you're going through.
(5)Don't sweat the small stuff; believe me, it's so not worth it. Don't worry about the dishes sitting in the sink an extra night. Don't worry about how awkward your signifacte other holds your wee one. Let the house get a little messy. Embrace what you have been given. The small stuff will go away. end of story.
(6) Continue to enjoy your life; Just because you have a little one, doesn't mean you have to give up everything you love. Make time to continue your hobbies. After all, to keep your baby happy, you have to be happy yourself. Obviously, you won't be able to go out drinking every night with your friends anymore, but set aside a little mommy time. You could even take up a new hobby. For example, I have picked up on eating better and getting into shape.
Being a young mother isn't as bad as you think. Actually, It's AWESOME! You get to enjoy a mini you that is always happy to see your face and loves being around you ALL THE TIME. End of story. Don't get me wrong, things are going to change, but I promise it is all worth it.
And if you're interested in participating in a small 5day fitness group
check out my other post over here!
I couldn't have said it better myself, especially number 6! It makes you feel like you haven't totally lost yourself in motherhood and makes the challenges feel so much more manageable.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! It's so easy to lose focus sometimes.. That's a beautiful photo!!
ReplyDeleteAll great tips! I don't have kids yet, but I think I would struggle most with #1 an being a young mom. People always judging you. Need to learn to brush that stuff off and focus on what's best for you and your family.
ReplyDeletelove this!! all great tips
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