Motherhood is a beautiful journey filled with love, joy, and countless responsibilities. For me, it has been the most challenging and also the most rewarding role! It’s also the biggest balancing act I’ve undertaken. It is easy to get lost in Motherhood, we slip into auto-pilot with the treadmill of endless ‘to do’s’ mixed in with sleep deprivation or logistics around pick-ups and drop-offs, and so any time for ourselves is deemed a luxury, IF it happens! But have you ever stopped to think what this looks like from a child’s perspective – yes Mummy is superhuman, but all she does is give or do things for others, her time is my time, she doesn’t have any needs other than my ones … EEK! So to a degree our best intentions of being the best mothers isn’t quite panning out as we intended!!
As mothers, we are teachers, we are role models and in that role we need to nurture and take care of ourselves so that their daughters and sons will too. It's essential for mothers to prioritise self-care and nurture their own growth. By becoming positive role models in these areas, mothers not only benefit themselves but also leave a lasting impact on their children. So I wanted to highlight some of the benefits mothers' role modelling of self-care and self-awareness, brings to both mother and child:
Enhanced Well-Being: Mothers who prioritise self-care and self-awareness experience increased overall well-being. They demonstrate the importance of nourishing one's physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Role modelling self-care can involve simple actions like setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. For instance, taking time for hobbies, exercise, and self-reflection not only benefits the mother but also shows children that self-care is a vital aspect of a balanced life. By taking care of themselves, they are better equipped to handle the demands of motherhood and daily life with greater ease and resilience. They also cultivate an environment that encourages open communication and healthy relationships. By understanding and managing their own emotions, mothers teach their children valuable lessons about empathy, self-reflection, and effective communication. As role models, mothers can empower their children to develop emotional intelligence and navigate their own emotional landscapes.
Healthy Boundaries: Role modelling self-care and self-awareness teaches children the importance of setting boundaries and prioritising their own needs. This fosters healthier relationships, as they understand the value of balancing personal and interpersonal well-being.
Improved Self-Image: When mothers prioritise self-care and self-awareness, they display self-love and acceptance. Children observe and internalize this self-compassion, leading to a healthier self-image and the ability to practice self-acceptance.
Self-Growth and Learning: Mothers who prioritise self-growth and continuous learning serve as inspirational role models for their children. Whether it's pursuing higher education, learning new skills, or actively seeking personal development, mothers who embrace growth demonstrate the importance of lifelong learning. Children witness their mothers' dedication to self-improvement and are motivated to adopt a growth mindset themselves, fostering resilience and adaptability.
Empowered Decision-Making: By demonstrating self-awareness and personal growth, mothers empower their children to make informed decisions and pursue their passions confidently. They learn to trust their instincts, explore their interests, and embrace their unique identities.
Mothers play a transformative role in shaping the lives of their children. By prioritising self-care and self-awareness, mothers become powerful role models who inspire their children to embrace these practices and live fulfilling lives. Remember, as a mother, you have the ability to create a lasting impact on your children's well-being and future. Embrace self-care and self-awareness, and watch your family thrive with love, empowerment, and resilience. Give yourself permission to let go of some of the ‘to-do’s’ and prioritise yourself, knowing that you are demonstrating that self-care is a necessary and important part of living a balanced and fulfilled life.
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