I get that you mean well, but sometimes unsolicited advice can feel more frustrating than helpful. Unless I’m specifically seeking your parenting tips, I’d prefer to navigate this journey on my own. So please, don’t tell me to…
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Cherish These Moments Because They Fly By.
Time may seem to zip by when you’re finally out of the trenches. Ask any World War II veteran about how quickly those intense years flew—their perspective might shed some light. Similarly, parents of older kids telling you this are likely looking back at their experiences with nostalgia, not remembering the chaos you’re currently facing.
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Just Calm Down.
It’s a crying baby who hasn’t napped in hours! Seriously, who can relax in that situation? A cup of tea sounds nice, but it’s hardly a solution.
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Sleep When the Baby Sleeps.
Easier said than done! The only time to realistically achieve this is while you’re still pregnant, and even then, good luck finding a comfy position. So, let’s be honest—this advice is a stretch.
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They’ll Eventually Grow Out of It.
Sure, teething is a phase, but not every challenge has a clear endpoint. Parenting is often a roll of the dice.
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It Gets Easier!
This is a myth! Parenting doesn’t just ease up; it evolves, bringing new challenges at every turn.
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What a Fun Age!
Back-talking and accidents on the couch? Sure, sounds like a blast. I can hardly wait for the delightful teen years, too—hopefully with fewer messes!
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Keep Trying with Breastfeeding; You’ll Get the Hang of It.
Not every situation fits the mold. If you’re struggling with latching or other issues, it’s tough to hear that things will magically improve. For some, it just doesn’t work out, and that’s okay.
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You Should Get Out More.
Are you offering to babysit? Because that would be a great start.
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Join a Playgroup for New Friends.
Finding a connection in a playgroup isn’t quite like speed dating. It’s a complex chemistry that can’t be forced. While you might meet a few helpful people, you might also encounter others who remind you of everything you’re “supposed” to be doing.
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Practice Patience.
Patience is a virtue, but so is dignity—something I lost the day I had to clean a messy crib while half-dressed and answering the door. And let’s face it, I’m not above telling my kids that broccoli is magic if it means they’ll eat it.
I know I might find myself repeating some of these lines in the future, once the chaos settles. Like the ups and downs of a popular soda brand, my perspective will shift over time. I’ll probably tell new moms that it gets easier or encourage them to enjoy these fleeting moments—despite what I really felt in the thick of it.
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Summary
Parenting can be full of unsolicited advice that often feels more annoying than helpful. From the classic “enjoy it because it goes fast” to the well-meaning “just relax,” these comments can leave new moms feeling misunderstood. As time passes, we may find ourselves repeating some of these phrases, but it’s important to navigate our unique journeys in our own ways.