What I've learned about motherhood: advice for new moms for Mother’s Day
With Mother’s Day around the corner, we’re celebrating by highlighting some of our favorite words of wisdom from incredible moms in the Doona community. From honest advice for new moms to relatable mom experiences and reflections, these quotes are a reminder of the strength, resilience, and love that define motherhood. Happy Mother’s Day to all of the incredible moms and mother figures!
“Learning as you go while you care for and teach a tiny human is what I value most about motherhood.”
“I’m constantly discovering new ways of doing things and thinking. I’m also able to break generational trauma by guiding my children differently than what was available to my parents when I was a child. Also, not sure if this sounds sad to people without children - but when you have a child, you realize how special a moment of silence is or how big having time alone is. It’s like all the simple things in life have a much bigger and deeper meaning. I also love that when I became a mother you’re instantly in this new “friend group” with almost every mother (or dad or caretaker) you know or meet. It’s like this massive club you never knew you’d be so delighted and thankful to be a part of.”
Vashtie, fashion designer and DJ
“The most incredible lesson I learned from motherhood is to consider the inner child of the person before me.”
“Before becoming a parent, I didn't always think about what a person might have gone through during their childhood that shaped who they are today. As a result, I now have more empathy towards others. Although they may be adults, they are still someone's child who may not have had all their needs met or opportunities they needed to succeed in life.”
“In motherhood, I stay present with how I’m feeling and identify what I need to be the best mom I can.”
“My greatest success is that I have grounding and peace. I know that every obstacle I encountered on the road to professional success helped to prepare me for motherhood. It taught me resilience and how to be mindful in the ways that advocate for and protect my well being. Nothing is more important than that. So in motherhood, I stay present with how I’m feeling and identify what I need to be the best mom I can. I ask for and welcome help. I take breaks. I do things to maintain my personal identity and satisfaction. And in doing so, my children get the best version of me, and hopefully are learning through my actions to be the best version of themselves.”
Melanie Fiona, singer songwriter
“No parent is perfect, has the same experiences, or knows all the answers.”
“I’m constantly saying motherhood is the most challenging blessing I have ever had. Becoming a parent is such a gift and I absolutely LOVE being Mav’s mom. Being the super competitive and ‘strive for greatness’ type I am, made the early stages difficult for me. It took some time to realize that parenting is one of those things you need to live yourself to truly grasp. No parent is perfect, has the same experiences, or knows all the answers. Every day may not go exactly how I envisioned, but no matter what I give it my best and know that Mav will always be surrounded by love.”
“It’s a lot of work, don’t be afraid to ask for help and accept it. You don’t have to do everything alone.”
“My advice to first-time expectant mothers is to take it one day at a time, with pregnancy and when your baby is born. It’s a lot of work, don’t be afraid to ask for help and accept it. You don’t have to do everything alone. Also, try not to be too strict with a plan and be flexible. Babies do what they want, so do not be upset if things aren’t always organized and perfect. Stay positive! Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. You got this! We are women and have the opportunity to birth tiny humans! That is unmatched! Most of all, have fun and enjoy your baby. It’s amazing watching them grow and learn.”
Ashley Cummings, Oncology nurse
“Other than safety considerations (such as safe sleep recommendations, for instance), the right way to parent is to parent in the way that feels right for you.”
“My number one piece of advice for new parents is to take a deep breath and remind yourself that there is no such thing as a perfect parent. We place so much pressure on ourselves as moms and dads to parent in a certain image of perfection that really isn’t attainable. But what I’ve learned in my over two decades as a parenting expert (and as a mom of 4!) is that there is no one right way to parent. Other than safety considerations (such as safe sleep recommendations, for instance), the right way to parent is to parent in the way that feels right for you. And that may look different for every parent.”
Sharon Mazel, author and parenting coach
Looking for creative ways to celebrate this Mother’s Day? Check out How to have the perfect Mother’s Day, or Mother’s Day traditions around the globe on the Parenting Tips blog for fun and meaningful ideas!
At Doona, we’re committed to making parenting simple for every family. That's why we’ve created our innovative and revolutionary Doona Car Seat and Stroller, transforming from car seat to a stroller in seconds; and Liki Trike — the most compact folding toddler trike on the market that grows alongside your toddler from 10-36 months.
