When I had my daughter, the simplest task of going to the store to get groceries became a completely new experience…. and many times, A STRESSFUL ONE!
My daughter would cry her eyes out when riding in the car. I decided that if I had to go more than 10 minutes away, I would not go alone. Forget about going on planes, the very thought made me anxious. Every new outing had me playing many 'What ifs' trying to be prepared for every situation.
‘What ifs’ CAN be a very useful question to help us moms be prepared for many situations.
Preparing the diaper bag to make sure that it has every item: diapers, lotions, wipes, change of clothes, toys, snacks, and the list can go on.
Calculating outing around the best time for your child such avoiding leaving the house when nap time is needed.
Taking infant medication, a first aid kit, and even an extra pacifier in case the one is lost.
How many ‘What ifs’ are enough? In order to avoid carrying your whole house with you in your trunk, spending hours getting ready to go, or even feeling trapped in your house, flexibility comes into play.
Be patient with yourself: Positive self-talk can help. Telling yourself: “It’s going to be okay” or “I am doing the best I can” can do wonders. Breathing is also a good way to relieve stress.
A little planning, but avoid getting carried away. Ask family and friends for recommendations, or read online for tips such as on ihelpmoms.com.
Lowering your expectations. If you can’t get everything done that you hoped for in your outing to complete chores, it’s okay to either postpone it for another day or ask someone else to take care of it. This might also mean giving yourself more time to get ready to leave your house.
Avoid thinking you have it all figured out. Infants change on a daily basis and as such, their behavior and schedules change frequently. If you remain open to change, it is easier to accept when a change occurs.
Flexibility is key as a new parent. And don’t forget, you are also going through a learning curve. No activity that you do as a mom is the same now that you have a little one. Yes, there will be more ‘What ifs’ and more frequent change, but rumor has it that spontaneity is the key of life. So go ahead, embrace it!
To Your Success!
Your Therapy Friend,
Sofia
Michelle Brown, Owner of ihelpmoms.com, approached me to provide some tips on how to manage anxiety during motherhood. Find the full blog at http://www.ihelpmoms.com/blog/how-to-handle-the-anxious-mother/
Sofia Robirosa is the owner of Infinite Therapeutic Services and is a Relationships & Parenting Expert. She offers individual, couples, and family counseling to individuals seeking to enhance their relationships. Her private practice is located in Plantation, FL. She attended Nova Southeastern University for both her Bachelor and Master Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and in Business Administration. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Leader in Active Parenting for children and teens, an evidenced based program. She is also a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP). She is a passionately committed therapist, who thoroughly takes pride and joy from her job. She enjoys working with a culturally diverse population and is bilingual in Spanish and English. She is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and an active volunteer of the Broward Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. She loves her family, which consists of her husband, daughter, and two dogs. Some of her interests outside of work include spending time outdoors, traveling, and dining. Read more about her at: www.infinitetherapeuticservices.com and follow her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/infinitetherapy/
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