Top 10 First Time Mom Mistakes

Being a new mom is hard work. Not only are you responsible for keeping a tiny human alive, but you also have to deal with sleep deprivation, hormone changes, and the challenges of learning to breastfeed. It’s no wonder that new moms sometimes make mistakes. Here are first time mom mistakes, based on my own experience and the experiences of other moms I know. Read on, so you can avoid these common pitfalls!

1. Not getting enough sleep:

As a new mom, you are probably used to running on fumes. However, this is not sustainable and will eventually lead to burnout. Make sure to get as much sleep as possible, even if it means taking naps during the day or hiring a babysitter for a few hours so you can catch up on some much-needed rest.

2. Not asking for help:

It’s okay to admit that you need some help. Whether it’s hiring a babysitter or asking your partner to take on some additional parenting duties, don’t be afraid to delegate. You can’t do it all by yourself and trying to do so will only lead to frustration and exhaustion.

3. Trying to be perfect:

The term “perfection” is subjective, so don’t strive for it. Rather, focus on doing your best and creating a happy and healthy home for you and your family. There will be days when the house is a mess and the laundry is piling up, but that’s okay. You are not expected to be perfect, so cut yourself some slack.

4. Comparing yourself to other moms:

Every mom is different and there is no “right” way to do things. It’s very easy to see the “happy” families on Facebook and get caught in “the grass is greener” syndrome. Remember, you have no idea what goes on behind closed doors and is hidden behind smiles. So instead of comparing yourself to other moms, focus on what works best for you and your family.

5. Being too hard on yourself:

Motherhood is a difficult and challenging journey, and there will be days when you feel like you’re failing, so it’s important to be easy on yourself. If you make a mistake, learn from it and move on. Don’t dwell on your mistakes or beat yourself up over them.

6. Neglecting your relationship:

It’s easy to let your relationship take a backseat when you have a child, but it’s important to make time for your partner. Make sure to schedule regular date nights, even if it’s just a movie night at home. Keep the lines of communication open and honest so you can stay connected.

7. Forgetting to trust your instincts:

As a mom, you have a built-in radar when it comes to your child. If something seems “off”, then it’s probably not a good idea to ignore that feeling. Trusting yourself is important because you know what’s best for your baby.

8. Not taking breaks:

It’s important to take a break from time to time, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Step away from the baby and take some time for yourself. Go for a walk, take a nap, or just sit in silence. Taking breaks will help you avoid burnout and will make you a better mom.

9. Putting your career on hold:

Just because you’re a mom doesn’t mean you have to put your career on hold. If you’re feeling pulled in different directions, talk to your boss about working from home or scaling back your hours. There are plenty of ways to balance parenting with your career, so don’t feel like you have to choose one over the other.

10. Forgetting to take care of yourself:

It’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Make sure to eat healthy, exercise, and get enough sleep. Also, don’t forget to schedule some “me time” into your day. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or going for a walk, find time to do something that makes you happy.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a new mom. But by avoiding these top ten first time mom mistakes, you can make your transition into motherhood a little bit smoother. And if you do find yourself struggling at times, don’t forget that you are not alone! Check out The Beginner’s Guide for New Moms for more advice and support. So take a deep breath, relax, and trust yourself. You’ve got this!