Motherhood is one of the most profound journeys you’ll ever take. It’s a path that is filled with heart-stretching love, joy, and growth, but also moments of exhaustion, doubt, and overwhelm. And yet, there’s something beautifully transformative in every step. It’s okay to feel both the immense love and the heaviness—it doesn’t make you any less of a mother. It makes you human. In the spirit of “Little Love Counseling,” we’re here to remind you that you’re doing better than you think! Really you are!!! Motherhood is messy, it’s unpredictable, and it can be tough. But it’s also the place where you’ll find pockets of deep connection and small moments of peace that make it all worthwhile. 

Here are a few gentle reminders and tips for surviving, thriving, and embracing your beautiful, messy journey as a mom. 

1. It’s Okay to Not Have It All Together 

One of the most freeing things you can accept in motherhood is that it’s perfectly okay not to have everything figured out. You don’t have to know all the answers, and you don’t have to be on top of everything all the time. 

• No one is perfect: Social media, magazines, and even well-meaning family members might paint a picture of the “perfect” mom—perfect hair, perfectly curated meals, a perfectly organized home. But the truth is, perfection doesn’t exist. And if it does, it’s probably not the version that will bring you peace. So let go of the pressure to do it all “perfectly.” You are enough as you are. 

• Embrace the messy: Sometimes, the best moments are the imperfect ones. The moments when you’re running late, the dishes are piling up, and your hair is a mess—but you still share a laugh or snuggle with your child. Those are the real moments of motherhood. 

2. Ask for Help (You Don’t Have to Do It Alone) 

One of the hardest things to accept as a new mom is that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. We all need a village to lean on. Whether it’s your partner, friends, family, or a hired caregiver, you don’t have to do this alone. 

• Reach out when you need support: This could mean asking for help with childcare, getting a meal delivered, or just having someone listen to your frustrations. There is no shame in needing others. In fact, it’s a reflection of your awareness and care for your own well-being. 

• Create a support system: Surround yourself with people who will uplift you, make you feel seen, and remind you that you’re not alone in this. If you’re feeling isolated, look for mom groups—whether in person or online. You’ll find solidarity and understanding, which makes the journey feel a little lighter. 

3. Take Care of Yourself, Too 

As a mom, it’s easy to pour all of your energy into caring for your child and forget about your own needs. But remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Your mental, physical, and emotional health matter just as much as your child’s. 

• Find small moments for self-care: Even if it’s just five minutes in the shower with your favorite scent, or enjoying a cup of tea in silence before the chaos begins, these little acts of self-care can make a world of difference. It’s not about grand gestures—it’s about finding pockets of peace throughout your day. 

• Nourish your body and soul: It’s easy to forget to eat properly when you’re busy taking care of everyone else. Try to eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, and get rest whenever you can. A well-rested, nourished mom is more present, more patient, and better able to care for her family. 

4. Give Yourself Grace Motherhood is one long lesson in patience, both with your child and with yourself. Some days will feel like a triumph, and others like a struggle. That’s okay. What matters is how you show up, even when things feel chaotic. 

• Be kind to yourself: If you miss a nap, if the laundry’s piling up, or if you lose your patience—these things don’t define you. What defines you is your love, your effort, and your desire to do the best for your family. You’re human. You’re allowed to have hard days. 

• Learn from the tough moments: When things don’t go as planned, take a moment to reflect, learn, and grow. Tomorrow is a new day. Each day is a new chance to try again, to give yourself more compassion, and to make more room for love. 

5. Cherish the Little Moments In the whirlwind of everyday life, it’s easy to forget to slow down and appreciate the small, beautiful moments of motherhood. The sound of your baby’s laughter, the feel of their tiny hand in yours, the quiet moments before bedtime—these are the things that will stay in your heart. 

• Be present: When you find yourself overwhelmed or distracted, try to bring your attention back to the present moment. The dishes will wait. The emails will wait. What won’t wait is the fleeting time you have with your little one, so savor the small moments as they com 

• Notice the beauty in the chaos: Even in the mess of motherhood—the spilled milk, the tantrums, the sleepless nights—there are moments of grace. Find beauty in the imperfect, because it’s all part of the story of motherhood. 

6. Trust Your Instincts You are your child’s mother for a reason. You have a deep well of wisdom inside of you—trust it. Whether it’s knowing when to comfort your baby or when to take a step back and ask for help, your instincts are powerful 

• Don’t doubt yourself: It’s normal to second-guess your decisions, but try to remember that you are doing the best you can. If something doesn’t feel right, listen to that inner voice and act on it. You know your child better than anyone else. 

• Own your choices: There will always be advice coming at you—from family, friends, doctors, or social media. But at the end of the day, you are the one who will make the best decisions for your child, based on your unique situation, needs, and instincts. 

7. Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small Every day is an accomplishment. Whether it’s getting out of the house for a walk, feeding your baby for the fifth time, or simply managing to smile after a tough day, celebrate yourself. Motherhood isn’t about grand achievements, but rather the constant acts of love, patience, and dedication 

• Give yourself credit: Every moment you choose to show up for your child, every time you choose love over frustration, you’re succeeding. Take a moment to acknowledge your efforts. 

• Be proud of the mother you are: You’re learning and growing every single day. There is no perfect blueprint for motherhood—there’s only your journey, your way, and your love. 

Lasting Realization: You’re Enough 

Surviving motherhood isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up, embracing the mess, and loving your child through it all—while showing yourself the same love and compassion you give so freely to others. So take a deep breath, mama. You’re doing great. And remember: You are enough. The love you give and the care you show, even on the tough days, is more than enough. Trust in the journey and give yourself permission to grow with it. You’ve got this, and you’ve always had everything you need within you. Little Love Counseling offers individual, couples and family therapy as well a new mom groups to support you as you adjust to this new normal.