Does it feel impossible to take care of yourself and your new baby at the same time? As a mother, you, how are you supposed to make sure you are getting what you need to thrive when you’re on call 24 hours/day, 7 days/week… responsible for keeping this new little bundle of joy alive and happy? It even sounds exhausting!
It’s no wonder that so many new moms feel emotional and completely overwhelmed. You know you need a break, but then you feel guilty about even needing one.
I’m here to tell you something important… Relax.
Not only is it okay to ask for help, it’s necessary and vital to your well-being. Not sure how to ask? Well, here are some simple ways you can do it:
Be Realistic
Yes, you’re a mother now, but you are still an individual that has her own needs. Recognize that being a great mother has nothing to do with being a superhero. Never feel you have to go it alone. Be realistic and understand that everyone needs help now and then.
Be Honest
Stop trying to be the greatest mother who has ever lived and do everything by yourself. When a family member or friend asks how you’re doing, be honest with them. Let your loved ones know you are feeling exhausted and stressed and could use some help.
Have someone watch your baby for an hour so you can get out of the house. Or have them watch the baby so you can simply clean the house.
You may also want to keep a list of household tasks posted somewhere, such as laundry, washing dishes, cleaning bathrooms, and have your loved one pick something from the list to take off your plate.
Be Flexible
When asking others for help, make it known that you appreciate others are busy and you would be happy to get their help whenever works for them. If this means the recycling doesn’t get packed up and taken to the center until Wednesday afternoon, that’s fine. If you’re the one asking for help, you’ll have to be a bit flexible with WHEN you receive it.
Be Safe
If you are suffering from postpartum symptoms it is incredibly important that you ask for help. Lingering feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety, fatigue, and hopelessness need to be addressed.
I’ve been a new mother before and I remember what it was like to feel so exhausted, so overwhelmed, and so ashamed to need help. But that mentality doesn’t serve anyone… learning to ask for help will only make the journey through motherhood a better one.
If you’re a new parent and would like some support transitioning into your new role, my New Parent Coaching program might be a good fit for you. Call my office today so we can schedule a time to talk.
