Becoming Mum

When I became a mother for the first time I found it hard. I realise now that's pretty normal. Nothing can prepare you fully for becoming a parent. The sleep deprivation, the pain you may feel, the emotional drain and the sacrifices you'll make. Everyone will experience things differently but ultimately it's a huge lifestyle adjustment for everyone and its ok to admit it's hard.

In the early days breastfeeding is tough. It's gruelling and I cried a lot. But it's something I personally really wanted to do. I was determined to succeed and that was my choice and decision. I would have given up if I felt any differently. It's hard doing night feeds and having broken sleep no matter how you're feeding but unhelpful comments or 'advice' are even worse. It seems today everyone will have an opinion whichever route you take.

That leads me on nicely to getting your confidence to venture out as a new parent. It's scary, you feel like you're being judged for everything. You worry that your baby will cry and you won't be able to calm it, or that you'll have to whip your nip out in public for the first time. But for me getting out was my saviour. (once i'd forced myself a few times). Reuben loved being out, he slept peacefully. The fresh air was good for us all and helped me keep a clear head. It also forced me to get dressed each day which restored some normality and routine.

Each stage of motherhood has it's challenges, all different but you get more and more confident in your parenting and your ability to read your child. You start to realise that you know your baby better than anyone and you have to stick to your guns. At 20 months in I truly feel like we have our shit together. I love being a mummy more than anything but I still have days when it's tough or I feel like I need a break. It's natural, normal and it's allowed.

So give yourself a break. Know it gets easier. Embrace your situation and stop comparing yourself and your baby to others. It only makes you miserable.