10 Pieces of Advice You Should know Before Having Kids

Becoming a mother is a transformative journey filled with joy, challenges, and countless surprises. While no amount of advice can fully prepare a woman for the adventure of motherhood, there are certain things that I wish I had known before becoming a mother. Here are 10 pieces of advice you should know before having kids.

  1. Trust Your Instincts:
    Parenthood doesn’t come with a manual, and each child is unique. New parents often wish they were reminded to trust their instincts and embrace their individual parenting style. While advice from others can be helpful, your intuition is a powerful guide.
  2. Self-Care is Not Selfish:
    In the midst of caring for a newborn, it’s easy for parents to neglect their own well-being. Many first time parents wish they had known the importance of self-care from the start. Taking time for themselves isn’t selfish; it’s a crucial aspect of maintaining physical and mental health.
  3. It’s Okay to Ask for Help:
    Supermom/superdads don’t exist, and that’s perfectly okay. New parents often wish they had been encouraged to ask for help when needed, whether it’s from a partner, family member, or friend. Accepting support can make a significant difference in the challenging early days of motherhood.
  4. Parenting is a Team Effort:
    Many new parents wish they had understood the importance of teamwork in parenting. Communicate openly with your partner about responsibilities, share the load, and work together as a team. A united front makes the journey smoother for both parents.
  5. Flexibility is Key:
    Parenting requires adaptability. New moms often wish they had been told to embrace flexibility and go with the flow. Plans might not always work out, and that’s okay. Being adaptable helps to reduce stress and make the parenting journey more enjoyable.
  6. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others:
    Every child develops at their own pace, and every mom has a unique approach to parenting. New moms often wish they had been reminded not to compare themselves to others. Focus on your child’s growth and your own journey, rather than trying to measure up to unrealistic standards.
  7. Cherish the Small Moments:
    Time flies, and many new parents wish they had been encouraged to savor the small, everyday moments. From baby giggles to quiet cuddles, these moments are fleeting. Take the time to appreciate them amidst the chaos of daily life.
  8. Learn to Let Go:
    Perfection is an unattainable goal in parenting. New moms often wish they had known the importance of letting go of the need to be perfect. Mistakes happen, and that’s part of the learning process for both mom and baby.
  9. Build a Support System:
    Having a strong support system is invaluable for new moms. Whether it’s friends, family, or fellow parents, having a community to lean on provides emotional support, advice, and a sense of connection.
  10. Prioritize Sleep:
    Sleep deprivation is a reality for new parents, and it definitely was for me. but prioritizing sleep is crucial for physical and mental well-being. Many new parents wish they had been reminded of the importance of getting rest whenever possible and accepting help to catch up on sleep.

In conclusion, while the journey into parenthood is filled with surprises, these pieces of advice can serve as valuable guideposts for new parents. Embracing flexibility, trusting instincts, and prioritizing self-care contribute to a more enjoyable and fulfilling parenting experience. Each parenthood journey is unique, but these shared insights can help pave the way for a smoother transition into the beautiful world of becoming a parent.

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