When you become a parent, it seems everyone you meet is eager to share their wisdom. While some of this advice can be genuinely beneficial—especially when accompanied by a bottle of wine or a thoughtful gift card—other suggestions can feel utterly unhelpful. Here are six pieces of advice that many new moms could do without.
1. “Savor Every Moment.”
This phrase can make your skin crawl. The notion that you should be enjoying every single second of motherhood is unrealistic, particularly when you’re grappling with the chaos of a newborn. Sure, you may adore your little one, but the fatigue, discomfort, and isolation can be overwhelming. When you find yourself struggling, it’s easy to feel like you’re failing. The truth is, many who offer this advice may have forgotten the challenges and simply want you to appreciate the fleeting moments.
2. “Make Time for Yourself.”
This advice often leaves new moms scratching their heads. When you’re tethered to a tiny human 24/7, the concept of “me time” feels like a distant memory. Unless the person offering this suggestion is volunteering to babysit, it can seem impractical and frustrating.
3. “Don’t Feel Guilty…”
Guilt is pretty much an uninvited guest for new mothers. Most moms, especially those just starting out, struggle with feelings of guilt. A more supportive message would be, “It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and uncertain.” Acknowledging that it’s okay to struggle can alleviate some of that burden.
4. “Sleep When the Baby Sleeps.”
This is one of the most overrated pieces of advice out there. Newborns might nap for short bursts, and often, they do so while being held. If you’re not a master at falling asleep on command, the chances of you catching up on sleep during those brief moments are slim. You might just be trying to finish that sandwich you started earlier!
5. “Stay Calm, and Your Baby Will Too.”
While it’s true that babies can sense their parents’ stress levels, remaining calm does not guarantee that your baby will be calm. If this were the case, many moms would have spent their days blissfully relaxed, munching on snacks and enjoying peaceful moments. Some babies just have a knack for turning even the most composed parent into a bundle of nerves.
6. “Trust Your Instincts.”
Sure, there are times when this wisdom holds true. However, it can be intimidating to think that you should have all the answers by instinct alone. Instead, it’s more helpful to hear, “I understand how daunting this can be. I’m here if you need support or have questions.”
For the well-being of new mothers everywhere, let’s steer clear of these clichés and focus on offering genuine support and assistance. A simple helping hand can make a world of difference. You can read more about fertility boosters for men in this post here or explore resources for fertility management at this reputable site. Additionally, for those considering pregnancy and home insemination, this link provides excellent information.
Summary
Many new moms encounter well-meaning but often frustrating advice about motherhood. From the unrealistic expectation to savor every moment to the impractical suggestion to make time for oneself, these clichés can add unnecessary pressure. Instead, a more supportive approach that acknowledges the challenges of new parenthood can foster a healthier environment for new mothers.