Learn from my mistakes as a first-time mommy!
As a new parent a mistake can often happen as this is a new experience for you. Here are a few common mistakes first-time mom’s make.
- Comparing
As a first-time mom, comparing your baby’s development or pregnancy process can be detrimental to your well-being. The pregnancy journey for everyone is not the same; it is a learning process as some parents catch on quicker than others. Likewise, the development of your baby. This is completely ok if the doctor suggests it is. Take your time learning and enjoy your new beginning of being someone’s parent.
- Not saying yes to offers of help
As a mom, saying yes when someone offers help is important. You don’t always have to do everything yourself, and sometimes offering that responsibility to someone else can give you the time to take care of yourself and the baby.
- Rest
Healing is important and people often underestimate the importance of rest. As a new mom, your body has gone through a lot! Taking time to rest and not quickly jumping back into society would be your best option. This is a common mistake that first-time parents often make, rushing and feeling like they must jump straight back into their normal daily routine.
Here are a few tips to getting better rest:
- Take naps when the baby is asleep
- In the first few weeks, let someone else take care of some of your responsibilities other than feeding your baby and taking care of yourself.
- Go outside for at least a few minutes each day
- Nutrition
Nutrition is important. Not prioritising your nutrition during and after pregnancy can be unhealthy. The body has gone through changes and requires time to recover. Many mothers skip this due to the tiredness and stress faced with having a newborn. An important tip would be to plan your healthy balanced meals daily either with an app or planner, including important food groups such as protein, carbohydrates, and fats with any required vitamin supplements that can increase your overall health.
- Take care of yourself (self-care)
Any parent can vouch for the sleep deprivation that comes with a newborn. Lack of sleep can seriously affect your mood therefore, a routine that you enjoy can make this process easier such as reading a book every day for 30 minutes or trying a new recipe to cook. These little things that don’t involve the baby can make the day more relaxing and enjoyable, which really makes a difference. Taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally can be a step towards feeling like yourself again.
