-
I won’t say, “I’ve been there, done that.”
I’ve heard this phrase from friends and strangers alike, and honestly, it’s one of the least helpful things you can say to a mom in distress. I remember a moment when all three of my kids were having an epic meltdown in a store, and a well-meaning stranger felt compelled to tell me she’d been through it too. That didn’t stop the chaos; it only made me want to toss some glitter her way! Instead of offering empty platitudes, I vow to offer genuine support when you need it the most. -
I promise to refrain from giving unsolicited advice.
You won’t find me arriving at your doorstep with parenting magazines or “helpful” articles unless you specifically ask for them. Even if you confide in me about sleepless nights and how exhausted you are—like that time you accidentally mistook the sink for the toilet—I’ll resist the urge to bombard you with sleep training books. I get it; you’re navigating the tough waters of motherhood without needing anyone to tell you how to swim. -
I will not compete with your parenting tales.
When you share a tough day, like dealing with a lice outbreak or a toddler tantrum, I won’t respond by one-upping you with my own horror story of epic proportions. Sometimes, it’s not about who has it harder; it’s about being there for each other. You don’t need to hear how my kids once turned our living room into a circus while I was juggling a stomach bug. I’ll listen, and I’ll empathize, but I won’t overshadow your struggles. -
I won’t point out your child’s outfit—or lack thereof.
If your little one is running around barefoot or in pajamas at noon, I promise to keep quiet. You know your child best, and I trust that you have it under control. However, if I see your kid digging in their diaper and pulling out something unspeakable, I’ll definitely step in to help out. I’ve been there too, and let’s be real—some moments are just too messy to ignore! -
I won’t tell you to savor every moment.
Let’s be honest: not every moment is Instagram-worthy. The time your toddler mistook your shoulder for a chew toy or the grocery store incident involving a flying can of green beans? Those aren’t going on the highlight reel. The trials of potty training, sleepless nights, and chaotic playdates can be exhausting and are perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed by. I promise not to make you feel guilty for wishing away those less-than-stellar moments.
These are my heartfelt promises to you, fellow moms. We’re all in this together, and I’m here to support you on this wild journey.
For more insights into navigating motherhood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination, or explore how to enhance your journey with an at-home insemination kit from Make a Mom. To learn more about what to expect week by week during your pregnancy, visit March of Dimes.
Summary
This article offers five promises to expecting mothers, emphasizing understanding, support, and camaraderie amidst the challenges of parenting. It covers the importance of refraining from unsolicited advice, avoiding competitive storytelling, and recognizing that not every moment of motherhood is one to cherish. The piece aims to foster solidarity among mothers, reassuring them that they are not alone in their experiences.