7 Things Every Mom Has the Right to Do, Guilt-Free

30 September, 2024

1. Feeding Your Baby: When and How

No one has the right to dictate how you feed your child. You owe no one an apology if they think your child deserves better than what you’re providing.

Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed, it is entirely your decision. And when you need to nurse your baby, you should never feel guilty about doing so in public.

What matters is that your baby is hungry and needs to be fed, and it is not your fault if someone finds it difficult to witness this natural act.

No one should dictate how you feed your baby. (Illustrative image)

2. Financial Constraints

You don’t need to be wealthy to provide a loving and nurturing environment for your child. However, when money is tight, you may feel that your child is missing out.

Remember, all your baby needs is your love and attention. If you can provide for their basic needs, don’t feel like a failure if you can’t afford the latest toys, exotic vacations, or extravagant experiences.

3. Taking Time for Yourself

After becoming a parent, you may feel pressured to dedicate every waking moment to your child. If you crave some alone time, you might even feel like a bad parent.

But that’s simply not true. Everyone needs time for themselves, and it’s understandable that you’d want some moments of solitude to recharge.

4. A Messy Home

You are not a bad mother if your floor is covered in toys or if there are dirty dishes in the sink. Caring for a child is a demanding job, so don’t beat yourself up if you don’t have the time or energy to maintain a spotless home.

Even if you do manage to tidy up, your little one might immediately undo all your hard work! So, there’s no need to apologize for a bit of clutter.

5. Your Appearance

You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your appearance. Whether your hair is perfectly styled or perpetually in a mom bun, whether you’re dressed up or living in yoga pants, no one has the right to judge.

There’s also no rush to “get your body back” after giving birth. Embrace your post-baby body and be proud of what it has achieved.

6. Asking for Help

As a mother, you might feel like you should instinctively know how to care for your child. As a result, asking for advice or relying on others for support may make you feel inadequate.

However, there’s nothing wrong with seeking guidance or accepting help. It doesn’t make you weak or less of a parent; it just means you want the best for your little one.

7. Declining Social Invitations

Your schedule as a parent will undoubtedly change, but your friends’ lives may continue as before. They might still invite you to social gatherings, but you’re not obliged to accept every invitation.

Whether you’re busy with your child or simply prefer to relax at home, there’s no need to apologize for declining. True friends will understand your new priorities.