Nurturing Parenthood: Tips for Being a Great Mother

November 16, 2023 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

As a mom to seven beautiful kids, I understand motherhood’s joys and challenges. Each day is a new adventure filled with love, laughter, and a dash of chaos. But, amidst this beautiful chaos, we moms often forget to care for ourselves. I’ve been there too. So, together, let’s navigate this incredible journey of parenthood, sharing with you the tips I’ve learned along the way. Because every mom, including you, deserves to feel loved, appreciated, and inspired.

The Power of Self-Care and Self-Love

As moms, we are often so busy caring for everyone else that we forget about ourselves. But here’s the thing – self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary. Taking time for yourself each day can rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. And because you can’t pour from an empty cup, you must learn to take care of yourself first to better care of your family.

Embracing Imperfection

Motherhood is an incredible journey with its highs and lows. Some days, everything falls perfectly into place, while others seem to go awry. But that’s perfectly alright. Embrace the imperfections and accept yourself for who you are. Remember, you are doing your best; ultimately, that’s what matters most in learning how to be a good mother.

The Power of Words

Words have immense power, especially when we say them to ourselves. As mothers, we often doubt ourselves and our capabilities. But instead of telling ourselves what we can’t do, let’s focus on what we can do. Use positive language when talking to yourself, and see how it transforms your mindset.

Creating a Support System

Surround yourself with a support system – family, friends, other moms – who understand what you’re going through. Share your joys and struggles with them, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child, which includes support for the mom.

Finding Joy in Little Things

Life as a mom can get hectic, but amidst the whirlwind of tasks, find joy in the little things. It could be your child’s laughter, the smell of morning coffee, or a quiet moment of calm. These tiny sparks of happiness can uplift your mood and brighten your day.

Practicing Patience

Motherhood is a journey that constantly tests our patience like nothing else. In these moments, we must remember that our little ones are still learning about the world and discovering their place in it. They will inevitably make mistakes along the way, just as we do.

So, when faced with challenging situations, take a deep breath and respond with understanding and unwavering patience. This simple act can make a world of difference not only to them as they grow and develop but also to us as we navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Setting Boundaries

Just because you’re a mom doesn’t mean you must do everything. It’s important to set boundaries for your children and yourself. You can say no, delegate tasks, and make time for what truly matters.

Celebrating Successes

Whether big or small, celebrate your successes. Finished a project at work? Made a healthy dinner for the kids? Managed to get some “me” time? Celebrate it! These little victories will keep you motivated and remind you of your capabilities.

Being Kind to Yourself

You are a strong, caring, and wonderful mother. Don’t beat yourself up over small mistakes or setbacks. Nobody is perfect, and that’s perfectly okay. Your journey is unique, and you are doing the best you can. And that’s more than enough.

Embrace Your Style of Motherhood

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to parenting. We each have our unique style, shaped by our experiences, values, and the individual needs of our children. So, don’t compare yourself to other moms. Embrace your own style of motherhood. You know what’s best for your family.

Enjoy the Present Moment

Life moves fast, especially when you’re a mom. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, always planning for the future or worrying about the past. But try to pause and enjoy the present moment. Savor it, whether it’s a cuddle with your little one, a shared laugh, or a quiet moment of peace when they’re asleep. These moments are precious.

Nurture Your Relationships

Being a mom is a big part of who you are, but it’s not all you are. Don’t forget about the other important relationships in your life. Spend quality time with your partner, connect with your friends, and take care of your relationship with yourself. They all contribute to your happiness and well-being.

Trust Your Instincts

You are the expert when it comes to your children. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to question it or seek a second opinion. You know your child better than anyone else, and your instincts often guide you in the right direction.

Show Your Love

Love is the foundation of motherhood. Show your love for your children daily, in big and small ways. A hug, a word of praise, a listening ear, or a note in their lunchbox can all convey your love. It’s these expressions of love that they’ll remember and carry with them.

Learn and Grow

Being a mom is an extraordinary journey of constant learning and growth. We learn valuable lessons from our mistakes, celebrate our successes, and gain wisdom from our children.

It’s a beautiful process of evolution, where we embrace the joy of learning and cherish the opportunity to grow and change as moms. After all, we are all unique works in progress, continuously shaping and refining our roles as mothers.

Final Thoughts

Motherhood is a beautiful, challenging, and ever-evolving journey. As we navigate the ups and downs, remember to care for ourselves, embrace our imperfections, and find joy in the little moments. We are all amazing mothers doing our best every day. Let’s support, lift each other, and celebrate this incredible journey together.  So, take a deep breath, mama. You’ve got this! Keep shining and keep being amazing. Your children are lucky to have you as their mom. Let’s continue to practice self-care and self-love because we deserve it. Here’s to all the moms – you are doing an incredible job!