Source: @GabrielaPinto via Flickr
7. Try As Hard As You Can To Not Compare Your Child With Others
As a mom, you want to make sure your child is on track for meeting milestones, and it can be tempting to constantly Google or compare to other kids you know. STOP.RIGHT.NOW. You know in your heart that every child is different, so stop giving yourself an anxiety attack and just focus on your child. It will only make you upset if you frequently size up the neighbor kid, and will probably tarnish the relationship you have with their mother. Now’s also a good time to say that you probably shouldn’t be flaunting your child’s accomplishments to other moms, like “well MY son was doing that 6 months ago.” You may think you’re being a proud mother, but you could be hurting someone else.
8. You’ll Want Alone Time, But Then Miss Your Baby The Whole Time
Alone time can be few and far between for mothers, especially in the early years. When you are blessed with a few hours out, you will be shocked that you actually miss your child. There’s that unrelenting love again! A shopping trip for yourself will quickly result in bags of goodies for your kids. It’s near impossible to shed your mom hat, even when you’re out alone. Regardless, alone time is never more necessary than after you become a mother. You NEED it, so don’t neglect it!
9. You’ll Need Other Mom Friends
I personally have always been an introvert and don’t mind spending time alone. I have some good friends but didn’t necessarily feel like I need any new ones. Once you become a mother, there’s an instant bond and sense of understanding with every other mother on the planet. And you need to use it to your advantage! You’ll need to get out of the house, have play dates, get advice and just be an adult with someone and mom friends are the who’s who. Stepping out and gaining new friends who have children was one of the best things that’s happened to me since having a baby. I don’t just have mom friends, they are my true friends!
Source: @JohnSpade via Flickr
10. Your Child Will Be Your Biggest Accomplishment
Even if you’re a power career woman, your child is your biggest accomplishment. They teach you as much as you will teach them over their lifetime. They are your pride and joy, and seeing that you are responsible for another human being is unsurpassed. Even on the tough days, your kids make you a better person and are literally your living legacy. I’d say that’s better than any award, promotion or bonus!