When I was pregnant, I remember my friend Lisa saying, “When your little one arrives, I’ll take some time off work to help out with cleaning and cooking. I’d even love to come early to tackle some of that spring cleaning!” Her generosity was overwhelming, but my reaction was less than gracious: “Oh, that’s so nice of you! But really, we’ll manage just fine on our own.”
I had similar conversations with my sister and a few close colleagues. Each time, I politely declined their offers, not out of a lack of appreciation, but because I was so accustomed to handling everything myself. I worried about whether they would know how I like things done or if they would feel burdened by the task.
In hindsight, what was I thinking? I absolutely needed the support.
Our culture often glorifies independence, leading many mothers to feel as though they must juggle everything from work to household chores without help. It’s no wonder that when I was offered assistance during the hectic days leading up to my baby’s arrival, my instinct was to say, “No, thanks!” That mindset, however, was a mistake.
Letting Go of Independence
Here’s the truth: We need to let go of the notion that we must do it all alone. The next time someone offers to help—whether it’s with laundry, grocery shopping, or meal prep—let’s respond with a heartfelt “Yes, please!” and a genuine thank you. Accepting help is an acknowledgment that it truly takes a village to raise a child.
Having friends and family step in to lend a hand means you can focus on bonding with your newborn and recovering from childbirth. Plus, saying yes to help communicates appreciation for the efforts of those who care about you and your family.
The Joy of Accepting Help
Think about it: when you do something kind for someone else, like paying for their coffee or volunteering in your community, it feels good to contribute to their happiness. Likewise, when you accept help with your baby, you’re allowing others to share in your joy and reinforcing your connections with them.
As much as it may go against our instincts of self-sufficiency, the next time someone offers to assist you, the best response is a resounding “Absolutely!” You’ll find that you won’t regret it, and your relationships may even flourish as a result.
Further Reading
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Summary
Accepting help from friends and family during pregnancy is essential for managing the challenges of new motherhood. By embracing offers of assistance, mothers can focus on bonding with their babies and recovering, while also strengthening their relationships with loved ones.