10 lessons from being a mom for 10 months

✨10 lessons from 10 months with Ellie JOY

1. No one knows what they're doing; we're all doing our best. I'm a good enough mom always

2. You'll never feel so strong and vulnerable simultaneously. Asking for help is a sign of strength and is necessary

3. Time is only a thief if you allow it to be — slowing down helps you savor each moment

4. Becoming a mom is the ultimate form of self-trust and having your own back

5. Your partner cannot read your mind, so tell them what you always need and how you feel often

6. Taking care of yourself first isn't selfish. It's a non-negotiable

7. Experiencing postpartum anxiety and having scary intrusive thoughts is normal but never discussed. However, practicing not attaching to them has been my most important work

8. Becoming a mom has dug up a lot of shadowy parts that I don't love about myself, and I'm (re)learning how to love those parts. The more I love myself, my capacity to love Ellie and BK grows

9. Learning to embrace the BOTH/AND has changed my life. Yes, I love being a mama, AND that is not and will never be my only identity

10. Everything becomes easier when you let go of expectations and learn how to roll with each phase. Trying to fit yourself in the pre-baby box is unrealistic and sets you up for unnecessary suffering. So yes, it's important to grieve who you once were so that you can embrace who you're becoming. Sometimes I miss who I used to be, but I love who I am now more.

Babies are magic ✨they remind us of our true essence and nature, and whenever my brain spins out on drama, I look at Ellie and I'm reminded of this truth.

What else would you add to these lessons?!? Comment below