Motherhood is one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences a woman can go through. It’s often described as a rollercoaster ride.
Days can be fraught with social pressures, self-doubt and feelings of guilt.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the benefits of celebrating the small victories and achievements of motherhood. From recognising social pressures, overcoming guilt and practising gratitude to turn negatives into positives, we’ll explore the benefits of celebrating motherhood's small wins.
Social Expectations on Motherhood
As mothers, we are often inundated with social expectations, whether it's from social media, friends, family, or even ourselves. These expectations can range from maintaining a spotless home to being the perfect parent and partner while also excelling in our careers.
The pressure to do everything perfectly can be overwhelming and contribute to feelings of inadequacy, stress, and even depression. This pressure can be exacerbated by the expectations of previous generations, who often had different lifestyles and social structures.
As mums, it's crucial to recognise that times have changed, and we need to let go of these unrealistic expectations that can harm our mental health. By embracing imperfection and focusing on what truly matters, we can cultivate a sense of self-compassion and empowerment that can help us thrive in our roles as mothers.
Overcoming Mum Guilt
Mum guilt is a pervasive emotion that many mothers experience.
We often feel like we're not doing enough for our children or that we're not doing it properly. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and even depression.
However, it's essential to remember that no one is a perfect parent, and we all make mistakes. Recognising this can help us let go of unrealistic expectations and start enjoying motherhood for what it is. Once we learn to manage mum guilt and say no to social pressures, we can start to focus on our accomplishments and celebrate the small wins that make motherhood so rewarding.
By practising self-compassion and embracing imperfection, we can build a sense of resilience and confidence that can help us navigate the challenges of motherhood with grace and joy.
Finding Joy In Small Moments
As parents, our lives can often feel chaotic and overwhelming.
With so many demands on our time, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget to enjoy the small moments. However, finding joy in these moments can be highly beneficial for our mental health and well-being.
By taking a step back and appreciating the little things in life, like a quiet moment with yourself or a snuggle with your child, you can cultivate a sense of calm and happiness that can help you cope with the challenges of parenthood.
Additionally, focusing on small moments can help us appreciate the present and stay mindful of our surroundings, which can be incredibly grounding in times of stress. Ultimately, finding joy in small moments can help us cultivate a more positive and fulfilling experience of motherhood.
Exploring Mindfulness In Motherhood
Mindfulness and gratitude can be powerful tools for finding contentment and joy in motherhood.
Taking a few moments each day to practice mindfulness, such as through journaling, reflection, or breathwork, can ground you in the present moment and put the positives into perspective.
Mindfulness can help you appreciate the small moments of motherhood, from your child's laughter to the warmth of the sun on your face. It can also help you cope with the challenges of parenthood, such as sleepless nights and tantrums, by giving you a sense of inner calm and resilience.
You could even use mindfulness as part of your self-care routine, perhaps ending your day by writing down three small victories from your day. This can help you focus on the positive aspects of motherhood and cultivate a sense of gratitude that can bring joy and contentment to your daily life.
The Benefits of Celebrating Small Victories of Motherhood
Celebrating small victories is essential for mums as it helps shift focus from negative self-doubt to a more positive outlook.
When we take the time to acknowledge and celebrate our accomplishments (no matter how big or small), it boosts self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, celebrating small wins can help build momentum and create a sense of progress which can be highly beneficial on days when motherhood feels overwhelming and exhausting.
Overall it’s an essential tool to help us get through the long days (and nights).
Small Victory Examples
To set the tone on what I’d consider small wins throughout a parenting day, here are a few examples:
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Enjoying a hot cup of coffee or tea without interruption.
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Having a productive morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day.
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Having a successful meal prep session that saves time during the week.
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Going for a walk or run and getting some fresh air and exercise.
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Completing a work project or task while balancing childcare responsibilities.
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Watching your child reach a new milestone.
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Connecting with a friend or loved one, even if it's just for a quick chat.
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Having a smooth bedtime routine that results in a well-rested child and some much-needed relaxation time for yourself
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Taking time for self-care, such as a relaxing bath or yoga session.
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Successfully navigating a challenging situation.
Motherhood is full of ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. By learning to sit back, relax and celebrate the small victories, we’re able to focus on the positive aspects of our lives.
Let’s celebrate ourselves and each other, because what we’re going through right now, raising our children, is pretty monumental!
