Count Your Wins

Becoming a new mom or adding a new baby to your family is a rollercoaster of emotions and challenges, especially during the postpartum period. While it's common to focus on the challenges and difficulties, it's also important to celebrate the wins, no matter how small they may seem. You took a shower: WIN. You mastered engineering the baby wrap so you can wear your little one hands-free: WIN. You drank your coffee or tea while it was still hot: WIN. Breastfeeding went well this morning: WIN. You're wearing really comfy, cozy sweatpants today: WIN.

Here are some tips for counting and celebrating your postpartum wins:

• Write down your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. This can be an ongoing note in your phone, a journal, or just a notepad that you have handy. If you're having a bad day or even a bad moment, reading about all the things that went right is so validating as you make your way through those early postpartum days.

• Focus on self-care: Taking care of yourself is an important win during the postpartum period. Even small acts of self-care, like taking a nap, getting your nails or hair done, going for a walk, doing something that makes you feel like you again, or even a call with your best friend can be significant accomplishments. Prioritizing your own well-being can help you be a better parent to your new baby. I really wish I had done this more when my son was little.

• Celebrate your baby's milestones: Every new parent is excited to see their baby reach milestones, like giggling or rolling over. Celebrate these moments and take pride in your role in helping your baby's development as they achieve these milestones. 

• Connect with other new moms: Sharing your wins with someone who gets it is so helpful and supportive. You may even discover wins that you hadn't considered before.

• Give yourself grace and be kind to yourself: It's easy to focus on the things you didn't do or the things you could have done better. Instead, give yourself credit for the things you did accomplish, and remind yourself that being a new parent is a learning process.

Remember, the postpartum period is a time of significant transition and adjustment, and it's important to recognize and celebrate your progress along the way. By focusing on your wins, no matter how small they may seem, you can build confidence and resilience, and better navigate the challenges that come with being a new parent. You created, nurtured, and mentally and physically sacrificed yourself. You are amazing.