As mothers, our friendships often evolve significantly after we enter this new phase of life. During the pandemic, these needs have only intensified. Here are three vital qualities we should seek in our mom friends right now.
1. Understanding and Flexibility
Life as a mom has always been hectic, but adding a global pandemic into the mix has made it even more chaotic. Our schedules are packed, and sometimes we need to cancel plans or change our minds. It’s crucial to have friends who understand this and don’t take it personally. There may be times when your mom friends seem to vanish for a while, and that’s perfectly okay. They might be drowning in the demands of motherhood or simply need a moment to breathe. If you see that your message has been left on “read,” it could be that they finally found a quiet second and got interrupted before they could respond. Remember, even if they seem distant, they care about you.
2. A Safe Space for Venting
The challenges we face as moms during these times are real and often overwhelming. With schools opening and closing unpredictably, rising COVID numbers, and escalating costs of living, it’s understandable that we need to vent. Even if some of us have supportive partners or stable finances, the emotional toll is significant. Sharing our frustrations with friends is essential for our mental well-being. It’s not about being ungrateful; it’s about being human. We need to express our feelings and have our experiences validated.
3. Ditching Toxic Positivity
In these trying times, it’s important to move away from toxic positivity. Telling someone to simply “snap out of it” or “get over it” can be harmful and dismissive. Everyone is experiencing this pandemic differently, and it’s vital to listen rather than offer unsolicited advice. Sometimes, the best support we can provide is just being there for one another, allowing each other to feel our emotions without judgment.
As we navigate this challenging period, let’s be patient with our mom friends and ourselves. We all need support, and what that looks like may have shifted, but our connections are more important than ever.
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In summary, the pandemic has reshaped our expectations in friendships, especially among mothers. We need understanding, a safe space to express our feelings, and a break from toxic positivity. Let’s support each other through these unprecedented times.