From Stuck to Thriving: 5 Basic Principles to Thrive in Motherhood

To thrive in motherhood is a beautiful, transformative journey that brings immense joy, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Picture this: you’re simultaneously a chef, chauffeur, referee, therapist, and magician (making a tantrum disappear can require some serious magic skills, ok?). It’s no wonder many mamas find themselves feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and drained, struggling to keep their heads above water while balancing their needs with those of their family.

Here’s the good news! Thriving in motherhood isn’t reserved for mythical creatures or Instagram moms with perfectly curated feeds. Nope. It’s for real-life moms like you and me, who sometimes find Cheerios in their hair and socks that haven’t matched in months (IYKYK). 

Here are five basic principles that’ll take you from merely surviving to downright thriving in your role as a mom:

1. Keep Your Battery Full

2. Say “No” More

3. Figure Out What You Need and Ask for It

4. Prioritize Your Well-Being

5. Always Have Something for YOU

So, grab your coffee (or wine, no judgment here), and let’s dive right in!

1. Keep Your Battery Full

First things first, mama, let’s talk about self-care. You know, that elusive concept that often feels like trying to catch a unicorn while riding a rainbow. It’s essential to pay attention to your body and mind for cues on what drains you and what recharges you. Because let’s face it, a mom running on empty is like a car trying to run on fumes – it’s not pretty, and it won’t get you very far. 

So, whether it’s sneaking in a bubble bath during nap time, blasting your favorite playlist while doing dishes, or indulging in a guilty pleasure trash TV marathon after bedtime, find those quick, easy, and actionable ways to charge your battery when you need to. 

2. Say “No” More

Ah, the power of the word “no.” It’s like a magical spell that wards off unnecessary stress and overwhelm. Know that every time you say “yes” to something, you’re saying “no” to something else – often your own sanity and well-being. So, let’s get real with ourselves and figure out what we’re saying “yes” and “no” to. This way, we can better keep track of how often we’re saying “no” to ourselves and our needs and how often we’re saying “yes” to everybody else.

Sure, saying “yes” to that volunteer opportunity at school might seem like a good idea at the time, but when you’re knee-deep in glitter glue and PTA drama, you might start to question your life choices. Instead, be more selective with your commitments, and don’t be afraid to politely decline the things that don’t align with your priorities. Your future self will thank you!

3. Figure Out What You Need and Ask for It

The age-old dilemma: we can’t expect people to read our minds, but darn it, why can’t they just know what we need without us having to ask? Well, mama, it’s time to let go of that fantasy and embrace the power of clear, direct communication.

Whether it’s help with the dishes, a night off from bedtime duty, or just a sympathetic ear to vent to, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for what you need. Self-awareness is king! The idea that we shouldn’t have to ask for what we want shoots us in the foot every single time. Because here’s the thing: you deserve to have your needs met just as much as anyone else. So, put on your big girl pants (or leggings, let’s be real), and let your voice be heard!

Click here to check out more postpartum-specific tips on Instagram.

4. Prioritize Your Well-Being

Let’s talk about self-love for a second. Listen, you’re body has done some incredible things – like growing a tiny human from scratch and surviving on minimal sleep and copious amounts of caffeine. So, let’s show it some love and gratitude, shall we? Set small, attainable goals to optimize your health, whether it’s committing to a daily walk around the block or swapping the PB&J crusts for something that will actually fuel your body. 

I have an entire blog post on postpartum body image and the “bounce back” culture where I talk about loving and actually feeling like your best self! If you’re looking to kick toxic diet culture to the curb and embrace a healthier lifestyle, I’ve got just the thing for you. Check out my “Mom Bod: A 30-Day Plan to Better Yourself” guide – you’ll learn more about “radical acceptance,” why it’s important, how to achieve it, and how mindfulness exercises will help you deepen your gratitude and self-acceptance so that you can achieve lasting change.

And let’s not forget about sleep. If you’re struggling to catch those Z’s because of a little one who thinks 3:00 am is the perfect time for a dance party, fear not! We’re here to help! Whether you need a quick phone consultation with a sleep expert or a comprehensive course from our collection of age-based content libraries, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

5. Always Have Something for YOU

Last but not least, never forget that you are more than “just” a mom. You are a multifaceted kickass human being with hopes, dreams, and interests that extend beyond the realm of diaper changes and snack-time negotiations. So, make it a priority to carve out time for the things that light you up and make you feel alive. 

Maybe it’s a solo dance party in the kitchen, a weekly book club with your girls, or finally pursuing that passion project you’ve been putting off. Because here’s the secret to thriving in motherhood: when you are happy and fulfilled, your whole family system benefits. 

Recap of 5 Basic Principles to Thrive in Motherhood 

A few months ago, I hosted a masterclass called “From Stuck to Thriving: How to Create the Mom-Life You’ve Always Wanted.” In it, I talked about each of these points and more – you can watch the full replay here!

Watch the “From Stuck to Thriving: How to Create the Mom-Life You’ve Always Wanted” masterclass replay here!

Thriving in motherhood requires effort and self-care. By keeping your battery full, saying “no” more often, understanding and asking for what you need, prioritizing your well-being, and maintaining something that is just for you, you can move from feeling stuck to thriving. 

Remember, these principles are NOT about perfection, but about progress and self-compassion. Motherhood is a journey filled with ups and downs but with the right tools and mindset, I promise you can create a fulfilling, joyful experience for yourself and your family. You deserve to thrive in motherhood!

Again, if you need support with your baby’s specific sleep needs or have any other questions about navigating sleep with your newborn, we would love to work with you – hop on a call with one of our AMAZING Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultants!

Whether your little one is a newborn (0-4 Months Content Library), 4-24 months (4-24 Months Content Library), or a toddler (2-5 Years Content Library), we have the resources you need to get your family the sleep you all deserve!