Today I am sharing an article with you that really resonates with me. While I am many years past pregnancy (my youngest is 21!), I well remember the changes my body and ultimately self esteem encountered. I gained over 60 pounds with each pregnancy! I thought this article was something I wish I’d seen back then and hope you enjoy it and can pass it on to someone currently dealing with a post partum body.
When you get pregnant, your body goes through changes, some of which are not pleasant. You will get bigger, deal with hormonal changes and feel different, but this is the price you have to pay for motherhood.
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When you finally hold the new bundle of joy, it’s a very satisfying and life-transforming moment. You will never be as spontaneous or wild-minded as you were before, but it’s a new fulfilling chapter of your life filled with love, deep satisfaction, and pride.
Being a Mother Transforms Your Life Permanently
Every decision you make has to factor in your child. You cannot go out without planning, invite guests without considering your baby’s comfort or even arrange an impromptu holiday. Even your work and social life will revolve around the baby.
As you will realize, being a mother is one of the most demanding jobs in the world. You will have less time for yourself and more responsibilities. Also, you will feel more insecure in your new body.
When you feel overwhelmed, get someone to take care of the baby, then dedicate some time to yourself. Buy yourself a new outfit, put on a new fragrance like maple syrup perfume and make your hair. Go out, meet friends, have fun, and don’t feel guilty.
Love Yourself
However, you need to start embracing your postpartum body, your new life and fall in love with the person you are at the moment. You can work towards losing weight but even when it takes longer than you expected, learn to love yourself as you are.
Some people will point out you’ve added some weight or look different, but don’t feel intimidated. The more you embrace your new self and role, the better you’ll feel.
Do the Things You Love
You don’t have to sacrifice your happiness or needs because you have a baby. Although the baby will take center stage, you still have to create time for yourself. Do the things you love and improve your life. The more you take care of yourself, the happier and relaxed you will be, enabling you to give your baby and the entire family the best.
Get Serious on Your Date Nights
The first time you go out will feel awkward. You’ll worry about the baby and be more self-aware, but you’ll soon get used to it. Even with the demands of a new baby, don’t neglect your love life.
You might not go out every day or weekend but create time once or twice a week. Hire or get a relative to take care of the baby, dress up, put on your favorite perfume and confidently spend time with your partner, and occasionally go out with friends or alone.
Get a Like-minded Community
Connecting with other new mums makes you feel normal and empowers you to face the challenges of motherhood. You will discover people who share your passions—friends who will give you the self-esteem boost you need when feeling low or inadequate.
As you will realize, taking better care of yourself, exercising, eating right, and keeping yourself peaceful and beautiful will significantly improve your self-esteem.
