5 things moms should do more of in 2021

Hey parents, how are you feeling? No really, how are you REALLY feeling?
We know 2020 was a hard year. Did you go into 2021 hopeful that it would be a better year? I know I did. While there’s never a guarantee, here’s a list of 5 things that us as moms should do more of to make the most of 2021.

1. Trust your instinct. I feel like this one is hard for new moms especially women who became new moms during the pandemic. I remember when I first became a mom: I was terrified to be alone with my babies. Second-guessing your decisions at this time is normal, but do keep in mind – what might work for someone else may not work for you. Remember that you are unique and so is your baby. Do what is best for you and your family. Mamas, you know what is best for your child. Trust your gut. You got this!

2. Prioritize your time. As a mom there are always a million and one things to be done. Whether you’re a working mom or a stay-at-home mom, from the pile of dirty dishes in the sink to the baskets of laundry that needed to be folded… The list is never-ending. Make a list of the things you need to do in the day and prioritize them according to importance and urgency. And then put one or two of the easier tasks on higher priority. Lower your expectations. You are not meant to be do it all. Some days you get more checked off the list than others and that is OKAY.  On other days, well… let’s discuss that in the 3rd point.

3. Make time for you. Do things that make you happy. I don’t know who needs to hear this, but you deserve a rest. If 2020 has taught us anything at all, it would be that rest is productive. Oftentimes we are so busy “being a mom” we forget the person we were before we were Mom. So, go on. Take a bath. Listen to a podcast. Go for walk. Take a break. Put down your phone. Recharge and come back stronger. Remember that taking care of yourself is taking care of your kids. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

4. Ask for help. All the restrictions and the precautions in place to battle the COVID-19 pandemic has made it very tough for new moms. Moms may feel lonely and isolated. But remember mamas, you were NOT meant to do it alone. There are a lot of resources online and through health hotlines, depending on where you live. There are a lot of lactation consultants that do appointments virtually if you need help with breastfeeding or latching. Friends and family can also offer support by dropping off food and checking in often. You can find mom groups online and ones that are in your surrounding area. I found mom friends so important when I was a new mom. Don’t be afraid to ask or reach out, and accepting all the help you can get, safety-permitting. We are all in this together. 

5. Be Kind. Be kind to others AND to yourself. This is a big one but is easily forgotten. A simple compliment, calling to check in on a friend, or holding the door for someone at the grocery store can go a long way. Often times we forget that everyone is fighting their own battle.