Don't Be A Perfect Mum, Be A Peaceful Mum

Going through the daily motions of motherhood can be exhausting. It is a dizzying carousel of addressing your little one's big needs. This is in addition to the distraction by social media, expectations outside of the family, and trying to stay relevant and engaged with other people.

Life can get overwhelming and the key is taking control of your time and invest it where it matters. Focus on filling your cup in meaningful ways. Here are some ways that could help you feel more contented. After all, motherhood should ideally be enjoyed, and not just survived.

Just do you!
Every mom and family is different. What works for another may not work for you. Remember that every mom has moments when they want to scream and run away. These moments don’t make it to the "perfect mom's" Instagram. Instead, extend your help to moms you know who are struggling. Pass it forward and that love will come back to you when you need it.

What's on your agenda?
When you feel overwhelmed by motherhood, it is often due to falling short of your daily agenda. When you learn to change your expectations of what is considered a productive day, you change your daily life. For example, making your little one laugh could be at the top of your daily to-do list.

One-on-one with your little one
Take advantage of bedtime to talk to your children and ask them about their day. Get your kids to tell you about one thing that they liked about the day, one thing they didn't like, and something they feel grateful for. This creates a wonderful opportunity for your little one to open up about what’s on their mind.

You won’t always be this needed or wanted by your children. When you look back on how you spent these years, you will never regret spending more time with your children.

Your little ones are learning. So are you.
Drinks will spill, food will end up on the carpet, toys will be all over the place – but don't try to be a super mom and do everything. Pick things that are important to you and do them well. Cooking a meal is a priority? Do that. Making sure your kids have lots of activities? Sure, do that. But remember that you can’t do everything.

Your kids would rather have a happy mom compared to a stressed-out mom. Remember to breathe, give your little one a lot of hugs, read a lot of books, put down your phone sometimes, and take walks with your little one and explore the surroundings, and life together. You and your little one don’t have to be perfect. You are both learning and getting to know each other. Be patient and enjoy each other’s company!