There’s a lot of new mom advice out there. Although well-meaning and potentially helpful, it’s all very overwhelming. Not to mention, advice like “tap into your support network,” and “take time for you” is so vague you may be left wondering exactly how you’re supposed to tap into your support network or find time for yourself when you have a baby that needs attention.
Don’t worry! We got you!
Here are a few of our favorite actionable new mom tips that you can do RIGHT NOW to make life easier.
Take One Thing off Your Plate by Asking For Help
Taking care of a baby comes with a whole new buffet of duties. And yet, you’re stuck with the same small plate. It’s important to take some things off that plate so you can make time for new chores, like changing diapers and feeding the baby.
Identify one thing you could use help with and ask someone you trust to take over. For example, you could ask your significant other to take on dishes duty or ask a neighbor if they would be willing to take out your garbage when they take out theirs.
Pick One Thing You Will Do For Yourself Every Day
Saying you’re going to make time for yourself and actually doing it are two very different things. Actually committing to me-time means getting crystal clear about what your me-time looks like.
Can you drink a cup of coffee by yourself first thing in the morning? Maybe your partner can take on baby duty every night after dinner so you can soak in a bath? Or maybe you dedicate the first ten minutes of nap time to reading a book?
Pick one thing you want to do for yourself every day. Then, make a plan to make it happen.
Develop a Sleep Plan
Babies have their own ideas about sleep, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have any control at all! Work with your partner to develop a sleep plan.
For example, who takes the first nighttime feeding shift? What habits and routines do you need in order to relax so you can get some sleep? Can you and your partner take turns sleeping in on the weekends?
Develop a plan that includes sleep hygiene and routines for you, your partner, and your baby so everyone can get as much rest as possible.
Organize Your Meds and Supplements
Mom brain is real. Medications and supplements that you remembered to take before baby are easily forgotten after baby arrives. Not to mention, there may be new medications that you or your baby have to take after they arrive.
Use Tooktake labels so you never have to remember whether or not you took those supplements or slathered on baby’s rash cream. It’s the best way to take care of yourself, take care of your little one, and free up some space in your brain all at the same time.
Easing into life as a new mom is an adjustment. With these new mom tips, you really can make life a little bit easier so you have the time to enjoy your new role.
