A while back, one of my sisters asked me for my best advice for first-time moms. After thinking for a moment, I said, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
I have come to realize, though, that this is relevant for all stages of motherhood . . . at least the ones that I have experienced.
In our society, it’s not easy to seek support. It’s not easy to accept that the struggle is real. A little word tends to come to mind: “failure.” Eek.
However, it’s so important to recognize that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of incredible self-awareness and strength.
Motherhood is challenging, and no one can do it on their own. In fact, we can mother much better when we have a support system.
I struggle with reaching out to people for help. But when I think through some of the reasons why it’s important to do it, it empowers me to actually take the step to do it.
- Caring for kids is overwhelming and demanding. Asking for help ensures that we get the rest and self-care needed to stay physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy and strong.
- Juggling the responsibilities of motherhood with other aspects of life, like work and personal time, is challenging. Seeking assistance with childcare or household tasks allows us to manage time more effectively.
- Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, and it’s normal to have questions and feel uncertain. Seeking advice from other parents and professionals can provide valuable guidance, perspective, and knowledge.
- Building a support network of other moms and parents who understand our challenges provides a sense of community and belonging, which is like chicken noodle soup for the soul.
- Reaching out for help can alleviate stress and prevent burnout.
- Showing our littles that asking for help is okay is incredibly powerful role-modeling. I would hate for my kids to feel alone, burnt out, and overwhelmed when they become parents.
So . . . ask for help. Please, do not be afraid to do it.
Seeking help does not diminish your mothering efforts. It does not cancel out all your sacrifices and hard work. It doesn’t mean you’re not a good mother.
» » » » » » » RELATED READ: Mental Load of Motherhood: How I (Sort of) Manage « « « « « « «
Asking for help means you’re realistic about your needs. It means you’re willing to do what’s best for yourself and your children.
Give yourself grace and reach out for support. This is one of the healthiest and wisest decisions you can make in your motherhood journey.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of El Paso Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
