Lifestyle
Being a mom is a 24/7 job, and while they may have kids and partners to lean on, it doesn’t mean they don’t need friends. Society often puts mothers on a pedestal, but the reality is that they face a multitude of challenges and emotional ups and downs. It’s crucial to recognize that moms are human, with their own feelings and needs. So, how can you step up and be a friend to the moms in your life? Here are some friendly tips:
Check In Regularly
When a mom has a child, it often feels like the world revolves around the little one. But every now and then, a mom needs to hear, “How are you?” Pick up the phone or drop her a message—skip the kid talk! Instead, ask her out for a glass of wine or a movie. Moms are people too, and sometimes they need a reminder of that.
Offer Specific Help
It took me ages to accept that I couldn’t do everything on my own as a mom. Thankfully, I have a support system, but sometimes I hesitate to ask for help. If you’re offering assistance, be clear—let her know you’re open to babysitting or running errands. This way, she won’t stress about whether it’s okay to ask you for a favor, and you’ll both feel more at ease.
Wait for Her to Ask for Advice
It’s tempting to jump in with advice when you see a mom struggling, but often, it’s best to hold back. You might not have all the information, and your well-meaning advice could turn out to be misguided. Most moms know what they’re doing, even if it looks chaotic! If they need help, trust me, they’ll ask.
Give Praise Where It’s Due
It’s easier than ever to let a mom know she’s doing wonderfully. If she shares a picture of her child achieving something, remind her how great she is for raising such a fantastic kid. Did you have a playdate that went smoothly? Let her know how well-behaved her child was and thank her for her hard work. Kids don’t just turn out amazing by accident; moms play a vital role in that!
Compliment Her in Real-Time
I’ll never forget my first trip with my daughter to the store when she was just two weeks old. I was overwhelmed, and when another mom said, “You’re doing great,” it was just what I needed. If you see a mom handling a tough situation—like a tantrum—let her know she’s doing her best. There’s always a compliment to be found; you just have to look!
Avoid Judging
Moms are already their own toughest critics. Instead of casting judgment, send positive vibes their way or simply ask how you can support them. They’re navigating a tough road, and your understanding can make a difference.
Show Grace
When I first became a mom, I had no clue how exhausted I’d be. Balancing work and motherhood left me drained, and some days I just couldn’t chat. If a mom can’t pick up your call or declines an invitation, show her grace. Remember, everyone has different capacities; what works for you might not work for her.
By being attentive, understanding, and supportive, you can truly make a difference in the life of a mom. Want to learn more about navigating the world of motherhood? Check out this resource for pregnancy and home insemination for more insights.
Summary
Being a supportive friend to moms means checking in, offering specific help, waiting for them to ask for advice, giving praise, avoiding judgment, and showing grace. By following these tips, you can help nurture the friendships that enrich their lives.