Are you a first time mom who becomes easily discouraged? You are not alone! This is very normal. Your feelings are very typical.
I think being easily discouraged is something most of us can relate to as first time moms.
When Brayden was a baby, I was so easily discouraged.
I had a picture of perfection in my head, and when that didn’t work out, it upset me.
When he didn’t take the perfect nap, I stressed. I remember stressing about his sleep even while I was pregnant with Kaitlyn.
If he took a long time to fall asleep at night, I worried.
I fretted over if he had enough food or not.
My oh my how I worried.
And where am I today? The other night, it was 9:30 PM and 18-month-old McKenna, my third child, was screeching with delight in her crib.
I turned on the video monitor to check out what was going on and saw her walking around the crib.
How did I feel? Stressed? Not even a little bit. Worried? Nope.
I laughed.
A real laugh.
I thought it was funny. I shook my head at her being up so late, then went on with my relaxing.
Things I Know Now as a Mom
I have come to learn that the child will sometimes not sleep well.
I have come to learn that a normal child sometimes eats one bite at a meal and is “full.”
And that is all fine.
I provide the opportunity. I provide the right atmosphere and do what I can to make these times successful. Then it is up to the child.
If I did my part, I will not lose any sleep over her staying up a bit late one night. She will be fine. And I can see it for what it is.
Funny.
Conclusion
If you are a first time mom, do what you can to relax and see the humor in the difficult situations that arise.
They will come.
Despite your best efforts and best planning, things will not be perfect.
You will be so much happier if you can learn to laugh instead of cry. I know that is easier said than done, and you might not be able to do it with your first child.
If you can manage it, don’t feel guilty about it. You just might be saving yourself some gray hairs.
