5 General Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Mom
- MustardMama
- Dec 20, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 2, 2024
1 - Sleeping is a crucial topic that warrants exploration before welcoming a baby. Why? Because depending on your daily routines, including food, naps, and activities, your nights can either be a dream or a nightmare.
Let me be honest with you: in the first days, weeks, or even months, we still have energy. However, challenges arise when your energy isn't as high, and you're dealing with a baby with established habits that need adjustment for a more structured daily life. Yes, discipline is important, but flexibility is key. Life, to me, is about adapting quickly to changes.
While there are sleeping coaches with helpful tips, it's crucial to consider your lifestyle. I applied some of their recommendations, but not all aligned with my perspective on life.
2 - Babies go through various milestones in the first two years, such as growth spurts, teething, and developing skills like walking and talking, eating solids, all of which can affect their sleep. Be mentally prepared for the magical roller coaster journey of motherhood, filled with ups and downs—not always a rosy path with rainbows, but everything will pass.
3 - Breastfeeding is amazing; I did it for a year. Still, consider expressing milk and using a bottle. This because someone else can help you, like Daddy. Daddy will be able to feed your baby, especially at night. It's basic, but I didn't know it, and my baby became used to only me, making the bottle transition challenging, even with a bottle resembling my nipple. In the end, I was mentally tired, especially at night. The key to successful breastfeeding, with the help of my husband, was ensuring the baby was properly attached to my nipple from the beginning—a technique worth mastering.
4 - Choose a partner who can be there for you in your worst moments, as tough times and vulnerability are inevitable. Avoid sexist men; you need a real partner who actively participates in parenting, breaking free from traditional gender roles. Co-parenting means shared responsibilities. Encourage dads to be more involved; you'll be pleasantly surprised. Trust.
5 - The woman we used to be takes a break for a while. It's okay; don't panic. If deep sad moments persist, seek help from your partner or relatives. Our bodies and minds are different; we also need attention, not just the babies. Your partner or any support you have is vital. Please have time for yourself, like a massage relaxation with natural oils in case you are breastfeeding, you should mention you are breastfeeding and they provide the proper oils, positions and precautions. I love full body Thai massage called aromatherapy and you must decide how strong you want it.
Is there something you wish you knew it before becoming a mom that you want to share with us?
Drop a comment below and let's create a space where we share, learn, and grow together. Your insights might be the missing piece to someone else's puzzle! ✨
MustardMama

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