I’ve decided that May 10th is not just Mother’s Day, it’s Happy Mothers Day—a day for all mothers to feel happy. If it were up to me, every day would be “a happy mothers day!” This year I’d like to celebrate the fact that all moms deserve happiness.
As a mommy myself, I know how easy it is to get bogged down in all of the responsibilities that come with being a mother. Our own happiness is often put on the back burner in order to provide comfort, security, nourishment, and entertainment for our little ones. Most of the time moms think they have to put their kiddos first, but it is equally, if not more, important to take care of ourselves.
I often say, “Happy mommy, equals happy children.” If mom is not happy, then no one is. Your munchkins feed off of your energy, so if you don’t make your own happiness a priority, they feel it. Ever notice how when you’re in a good mood, life just seems to flow easily? You know those times where there are more feel good moments, and your kids just seem to magically be on their best behavior? It’s no coincidence, and it’s not magic.
When you are happy, you can show up with patience, generosity, and love. In those moments, motherhood doesn’t feel like sacrifice, it feels like pure joy. When you focus on the all of the amazing little aspects of being a mom, it feels good, too. And when you feel good, it’s easier to be a patient, loving, open, calm mom.
Giving yourself permission to let go of how you think you “should” be, and what everyone else is doing or not doing, opens you up to a world with far less stress and anxiety about how you’re doing as a mommy.
Cherish the Precious Moments
Changing the way we think about things is the key to being a happy person and a happy mother. Instead of being irritated that your three-year-old only wants mommy, and you barely have a moment to take a shower, remember one day she won’t need you like she does today, and you will miss it. Try and savor it. When your baby is awake at 3:00 am, and you just wish he would sleep through the night, remember those quiet nighttime snuggles won’t last forever. When your teenager is giving you attitude, remember she will be moving out in a few years, and you will miss her presence.
It can be tricky at times for us to keep our cool in the midst of the chaos that motherhood brings, but being kind to ourselves and learning to let things go is so powerful. Motherhood doesn’t have to be so serious. In fact, when we are able to let our guards down, and just be present, there is an abundance of happy-infusing moments.
Take it in when your infant curls his fingers around yours. Get silly and act as if you are still a kid with your toddler. Ask your kids about the favorite parts of their days. Cherish it when your teenagers ask you for advice. These are the moments that mean the most.
Whether your kids are little or all grown up, being a mom is the most challenging and most rewarding (if you allow it) job there is. Treat yourself with the love and kindness that you offer to your children each day. You deserve it. Let go of your fears and desires for perfection and be grateful for each moment.
Let’s celebrate all things happy, and all of the happiness that moms bring to the world. Let the good feelings flow and become filled with gratitude for your mom and all of the other moms out there who are doing the best they can, including you. A Happy, Happy Mother’s Day to all of the moms out there!
Click here to see Rose’s tips for healthy and happy relationships
