Being a mom of many I get asked my advice often, from what car seat to buy to how to make breast feeding work. I unfortunately don't have all the answers, I'm totally flying by the seat of my pants just like everyone else. But I think it's my duty share the things I have learned in this crazy journey of motherhood so far.
Get an experienced shopping buddy - I know it seems silly, but sometimes having the right swing, carrier or pump can make all the difference in a new moms life. Don't pick a mama that had her baby 6 years ago - gadgets change and products evolve.
Trust your instincts - You're going to get a piece of advice from everyone you know. Listen attentively to it all, then throw out anything that doesn't sit well with you. There are a lot of schools of thought on sleeping, breastfeeding, soothing etc. Listen to your gut and remember that only you know what's right for your baby.
Don't make decisions at 3am - Once that new baby arrives there will be tough moments. Moments that require a clear head. Do everything you can possibly do to get through that middle of the night cry or feeding. It's all a matter of survival in the first few weeks and making a rash decision you might regret will not feel good in the light of day.
Don't judge yourself - Every single mom makes mistakes. We've all pinched those little thighs in the car seat or bumped their heads off a wall once in a while. Babies are very resilient. Do your best, but if your daughter poops out a dime - laugh about it and carry on. (please click here for the pooping out a dime story)
Find your person (or group of people) - Find some mamas that you trust to give you honest feedback and support. We all need a support network (like momstown) to fall back on when things get tough. Make sure yours is set up before that baby arrives. Postpartum hormones + lack of support = one stressed out mama.
What was the best piece of advice you were given before baby?
Did you have a support network in place first?
1 comment:
Best piece of advice, was trust your instincts. Moms know!! We know when something isn't right.
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