Moms have a pretty tough role, don’t they? There are so many roles that mothers are expected to have such as caretaker, cleaner, cook, worker (whatever their career is), and then the roles that that their put on them as well. There are massive expectations that are placed on mothers and it’s simply incredible what these women are capable of. With all of these expectations and pressure that are placed on mothers on a daily basis, it’s amazing how it can be handled. However, it can also be tough.
These expectations make it far more difficult for a mother to have empathy for themselves or even allow themselves to catch a break. For the sake of your mental health, it’s always best to look into ways to be kind to yourself. These are some tips to achieve just that.
Do what makes you feel good
This can be anything big or small such as eating ice cream, going on chatlines, sleeping in, taking a vacation, just basically anything that puts a smile on your face. Doing things that make you happy is very kind to yourself of course, but it can also recharge you both physically and mentally as well. Giving yourself a little bit of bliss and going a long way will help you push yourself. You’re entitled to feel good, so why not do what makes you feel good?
Never be afraid to splurge
There’s this pressure that’s placed on moms that they shouldn’t spend any money on themselves. There’s a whole Simpsons episode based around Marge Simpson wanting a dress that’s on sale but guilts herself into not buying it because that money could go towards her family instead. There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself, if you have the extra money after all the necessary expenses were paid for then why not, right? Most mothers are expected to work full time, parent full time, and then they need to be the homemaker as well such as doing unpaid chores. You work every day, nonstop, and you’re in this full-time mode 24/7. Don’t be afraid to spend a little bit of money on yourself.
Forgive yourself
Everyone makes mistakes here and there, and you’re not a superhuman. You should never place the expectation of yourself to be a supermom or superhuman, it’s just unrealistic expectations. While TV shows, movies, and even social media will try to influence mothers to be perfect and beautiful nonstop, just know that it’s not real. You’re not perfect and nobody is. If you ever make mistakes (and you should), you shouldn’t make yourself feel guilty. Mistakes happen and don’t even allow guilt trips to bother you. Lingering guilt is a part of motherhood but it’s something that needs to be kicked out.
Allow yourself to unplug from the world
What are you wanting to do for the rest of your life? Living in a world where you’re expected to reply back in an instant is just absurd. Don’t allow that pressure to get to you. Learn that it’s completely okay to have a digital detox, in fact, it’s best to fully embrace that! Stop comparing yourself to Instagram moms, stop feeling like you need to instantly text back, enjoy life outside the phone.
