As mothers our jobs are hard enough. We are built-in maids, chefs, doctors, professional snugglers and array of other things. We put everyone else first and often forget to do things for ourselves. However, through all of the chaos and craziness there are thirteen things we, as moms, need to STOP doing:
1. Shaming other moms
We're all doing the best we can; you're doing the best you can. Just remember that and let's stop the so called "Mommy Wars."
2. Comparing ourselves
Yeah, you- the one that just stalked that mom blogger and wished you had her life. Don't do that. We all have our own battles to fight, joys to feel- they're individual and our own, so enjoy yours! The comparing game isn't worth it.
3. Forgetting to take care of ourselves
We matter, even if it might not seem like it somedays. So go get your haircut, shave your legs, or have a girl's night; you deserve it.
4. Body shaming
Quit looking in the mirror and picking apart your entire body. You're beautiful, strong, and a mom- rock that!
5. Buying our babies everything
Wait, wait, wait, before you get all stressed out- ask yourself: how many times do you go to the store to grab yourself a shirt and walk out with 5 new pieces of clothing for your babe and none for you? Yeah, that. Get yourself a stinking shirt; trust me, your babe probably has enough clothes.
6. Mom guilt
Mom guilt is the WORST, so why do we even spend time on it? Exactly- just forget about it. Remember: we're doing the best we can, and it's not worth feeling guilty over.
7. Apologizing for a dirty house
How many times have you said, "I'm so sorry my house is such a mess!"
I can't even count on my fingers how many times I've said that phrase. Here's the thing though, we all say it, which means we all have toys on the floor and dishes in the sink. It's one of the glories of being a mom. One day you'll probably miss it. So embrace the messy and quit apologizing for it!
8. Feeling bad for wanting alone time
It's okay to take an hour for yourself. Your husband, a family member, babysitter, or whomever you trust, can handle the kids for that time. Don't feel bad about it, just enjoy "you" time and relax!
9. Thinking others have it all together
Well, we don't!
10. Putting off your dreams
It might be a reach; it might be really hard or a lot of work to do with kid(s), but guess what? You CAN do it. Follow your dreams, accomplish your goals, and include your babies in them now.
11. Being your own worst critic
Don't be so hard on yourself. Don't worry about your hair, your house, or your parenting- just enjoy it. You're amazing, and you're doing better than you think, so quit focusing on the negatives! Cut yourself a break.
12. Taking everything on yourself
Don't be afraid to ask for help, in fact just ask! You're not a superhero (as much as we all wish we were). We need help every now and again, so just ask for it. Give tasks to those around you and stop trying to do it all.
13. Stressing over every little thing
You know the thing you were SO worried about last month? It worked out didn't it? And if it didn't- that's okay. Stressing about it only made it worse, and you're going to get through it now. Moral of the story: stress only makes things harder. Let's just wave goodbye to it.