By Dana Baker-Williams

As a new mom, I really wanted to know what I didn’t know: how to be successful. I wanted someone to clue me in to the secret of being a great mom. Here’s the thing: there is no secret that everyone else knows. Motherhood is not for the faint of heart—and even if someone tells you about motherhood, you won’t comprehend it until you are in it for real. That said, there are many things no one tells you about and here are a few worth getting the heads-up on. ​

1. You start singing and changing the lyrics to fit your child. For instance, I sang You Are My Sunshine—never sang it before, but there I was singing it to my kids on the regular.
2. You stand, but you’re moving constantly. You just stand there, swaying. And even if you aren’t holding your baby, you still catch yourself swaying!
3. Breastfeeding can be tough. It’s easy for some, hard for others. It takes patience, quiet, and a few weeks to really get the hang of it. That said, if you are in pain, getting infections or it’s just not working for you, that is OK. Your child will be fine with formula, truly. Let it go.  
4. You will hate the noisy, plastic toys–and your siblings will buy a million of them, just to see you cry.  
5. Motherhood can be isolating and exhausting. Join a playgroup, get a sitter, and go outside every day. The playgroup is a lifesaver and often those friendships last a lifetime. A sitter is so important once in a while—even just to go to the grocery store alone. Not joking on that; I was ecstatic to go to buy anything by myself. And when you are home alone with your baby, and it feels overwhelming, step outside with them. Fresh air helps everything.

And as a bonus, here’s the most important nugget you need to know: Motherhood is more than worth every ounce of energy you give it. And you give a lot. Forever. And you’d never ever change it for the world.

Dana Baker is a Parent and Teen Coach specializing in ADHD and Anxiety. She gives parents the tools and support they need to understand, parent more effectively and connect with their child. Simple shifts and techniques will allow you to parent with confidence and handle the challenges with grace. You’ll have a peaceful home,  a better family dynamic and a closer relationship wit your teen, As an ADHD and Anxiety coach for teens Dana will set them up for success with life skills, resilience, and self-advocacy. https://www.parentinginreallife.org/  or check out her blog https://www.parentinginreallife.org/blog

To see more Friday Fives, visit here and sign up for our newsletter.