Morning daycare drop-off is no joke… I recall one of those Mama moments where I had my pumping bag, purse, diaper bag, and baby in the car seat on one arm and a tiny toddler hand on the other. Lo and behold, I was unable to unlock the garage door with my hands full. So, I resorted to what I had avoided in the first place–I had to put everything 
down. Sidestep: does anyone else play a game with themselves to see if you can get everything to and from the car in one trip? Needless to say, I grudgingly put everything down, grabbed my keys, unlocked the door, and picked everything back up. But as I did that, my daughter Julia said, “Good Job, Mama!” I had my hands and arms full, toddler and baby dressed and fed, and I’m heading to work to deal with sweaty teenagers all day. That is a good job!
I started thinking about why I don’t give myself compliments and positive affirmations more often. All day long I’m giving my students at school and my kids at home praise for a job well done. Whether it’s finishing a chapter book or putting toys away, it’s important to give credit where credit is due. And if I’m trying to teach my kids to be confident in themselves, I need to be, too. I need to give myself daily reminders that I am doing my very best and that is amazing. We use affirmations with so many things, so why not start complimenting and affirming ourselves?
If you’re like me though, this is easier said than done. The digital world packs a punch these days for us Mamas. These Pinterest parties are really throwing a wrench into my dollar store bought Sesame Street decor and tablecloths. It’s really easy to feel like I’m less than those other Mamas who took the time to create these beautifully themed parties for their kids. And if that’s where I spend my time– feeling sorry for myself that I wasn’t able to do that, then that’s how I feel. But instead, why wouldn’t I want to compliment myself that I made it to the store, bought some decor and cupcakes, and am celebrating my daughter’s birthday with our family? That sounds awesome in itself!
Other Mamas are doing great things we see online or hear about at playdates; and the thing is, those Mamas are incredible… but so am I, and so are You. We all have to remember that the overwhelming majority of us are not posting toddler tantrums, baby crying fits, teenage outbursts, spousal disagreements, and financial issues online or discussing them at the park. Moreover, I am selective about what I post, as I’m sure you are, too. When I look back on my Instagram or Facebook timeline, I want to remember the happy moments so I’ll smile, laugh, and shed happy tears. I would rather forget about the time I chased my crying, screaming, and flailing kid down the alley [because she refused to come in the house] with my arms full of things because I refused to put them down 😂
Day in and day out we Mamas are giving it all we have. It’s important to take the time to reflect on all the wonderful things we do and sacrifice for our families. Whether you’re a new Mama, trying to be a Mama, or your kids are grown, I’m sensing from every woman out there that these feelings don’t change. We just continue to reach new milestones and
with that, we need to continue to remind ourselves that we’ve got this and we deserve to compliment ourselves! And when you have an extra minute, call a fellow Mama or give a shout out when you see her and remind her that’s she’s doing a great job. Being recognized helps build the personal confidence needed to propel your own self-worth and appreciate yourself as much as others do.
I wanted to share some positive affirmations and vibes with you all, myself included. I reached out to my Facebook group and several of the Mamas within my personal Band had these things to share:
Stacy B. reminds herself of these simple words: You are enough. *A special shout out to Stacy, she’s rocking a new gig and is the author of an amazing new children’s book Cami Kangaroo Has Too Many Sweets
Christina R. has learned this since becoming a Mama: Your body is amazing… love it, be gentle with it, and never forget the power within it.
Laura G. wishes she had known this after having her first child: This too shall pass. A lot of things our kids need to learn and figure out on their own which actually makes it easier for you.
Chelsea R. states Formula fed or breastfed, your son [or daughter] is still healthy and thriving. Let go of how you thought feeding was going to go and move on to the option you’ve got before you lose it. It is okay!
Pam S. relates This is the best “job” out there!
Daniele H. feels that The power of positivity can move mountains not just in our own lives but also in the lives of others. The more we surround ourselves with happiness and love, the more you believe it, feel it, and want to share it.
Jessica G. shared … Try not to be so hard on yourself… You will get sleep again one day! Oh, and go to bed earlier!
Patsy B. reminisces, Time goes by so fast; relish each stage your kids are at and
remember no matter how old you or your kids are, you’re still a Mama and they still need you!
My parting words are, It’s great to compliment other Mamas on their job well done. But take some time to do the same for yourself. You are putting your best foot forward every day, too, and that is amazing ❤️
XO,
Linds
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