Think of your life and now think of your friendships. Think of your inner circle.
I guess you would think you know a lot about your friends and you probably do. I certainly feel that I know my friends, but how well do you really know them?
Ask yourself these questions:
The next time you are being judged either by a stranger, social media, another mother (even your own or mother-in-law) start asking them the above questions. I bet they wouldn’t know the answers and think it's strange to even ask.
We need to stop the motherhood pressure cooker. Not every choice you make is going scar your little one and ruin their future.
The fact that you care enough to worry is a good thing but don't worry too much and don't change your motherhood habits/choices because someone else feels you should.
I remember a friend saying to me 'I think it's hideous that my husband’s mother had him sleeping with her until he was four!'
She felt this was 'disgusting and detrimental' to his development.
Now, this husband of hers (who happens to be gorgeous as well...lucky friend!) runs a very successful business, is an extremely dedicated family man, loyal and a great provider.
This friend of mine loves him completely and sings his praises all the time. So why does it matter to her that he slept with his mum until he was four? She married him, he’s a good man and turned out just fine.
Just stop and know in your heart you are doing the best you can and be kind to mums who make decisions that may not be the same as yours.
It's okay to have a different approach to motherhood. The world would be so boring if we all did the same thing at the same time.
You are doing a great job.
As a mother of three boys who are completely different personalities and skill sets, don't judge me.
And you know what...I don't let other opinions affect my decisions now, but yes I did for a while with my first.
And PS...I had had my
What I have learned is to not worry about the milestones as I know they all get there (some sooner than others).
Written by Jo
Mother of 3 boys, Brisbane
I’m going to come right out and say it. I’ve always viewed Facebook with a little trepidation and fear. So much so that up until recently my personal profile featured a blank image, no information and a long-abandoned maiden name. That’s despite the fact I work in social media and enjoy a livelihood based on telling other people’s stories.
“Yes of course I’ll look after your kids for the weekend, help you move house, bake 150 cupcakes for the school fete, meet that unreasonable work deadline, and spend my Saturday on a cold sporting field manning the canteen!”
It’s a constant battle. You want your children to have more than you did as a child. You want for them every opportunity, every experience, everything that you had growing up and more. It’s just a natural thing. Every parent knows the feeling.
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ClareD - January 25, 2018
Very nice...
Rob_Strac89 - January 18, 2018
Love this! It’s so true. Well said, Jo!
ClaireB - November 23, 2017
Yes great article- definitely food for thought!
Clarebear - November 23, 2017
This is very true. Fantastic perspective
Molly - November 15, 2017