See Yourself Through Their Eyes: 7 tips for Practicing Self-Compassion

Hey there, Let’s take a moment to chat about something super important: treating ourselves with compassion. We often put everyone else first—our partners, our kids, our work—but what about us? Let’s dive into how we can sprinkle a little self-love into our busy lives!

1. The Myth of the Supermum

First off, let’s bust a myth: there’s no such thing as a “Supermum.” Every day, we juggle a million things—changing nappies, preparing snacks, and trying to find that elusive moment of peace (hello, five minutes in the bathroom!). It’s easy to feel like we’re failing when we don’t meet those unrealistic expectations we set for ourselves. But here’s the thing: perfection is overrated!

Instead of striving for that mythical Supermum status, how about we embrace our wonderfully messy reality? Compassion means accepting that some days we’ll smash it, and other days we might just manage to keep everyone fed and somewhat clean. And that’s totally okay!

2. The Power of Kindness

Imagine talking to yourself like you would to your best friend. If she was having a rough day, you’d probably say something supportive, right? “Hey, you’re doing your best! It’s okay to take a break!” Now, why don’t we say those things to ourselves? Self-compassion is all about treating ourselves with the same kindness we’d offer others.

Next time you catch yourself in a negative thought spiral—like, “I can’t believe I forgot to pack the snacks!”—pause. Flip that script! Say to yourself, “I’m doing great, and it’s just one snack. Tomorrow is a new day!” It’s a small shift, but it can make a world of difference.

3. Acknowledge Your Feelings

As mums, our feelings can often feel like a rollercoaster. One minute, we’re on cloud nine, and the next, we’re questioning everything. It’s important to acknowledge those feelings instead of brushing them aside. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, or maybe you’re just plain tired. Recognising those emotions is the first step toward self-compassion.

Try journaling your feelings or chatting with a friend over a cup of tea (or a glass of something stronger—no judgment here!). Sometimes, just vocalising what you’re feeling can lighten the load. Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel a mix of emotions, especially during pregnancy and early motherhood.

4. Celebrate the Little Wins

Let’s face it: parenting is tough work! So why not celebrate those little victories? Did you manage to get everyone dressed today? High five! Did you sneak in a shower (gasp!)? Treat yourself to a nice cup of tea or a favorite snack! These small moments deserve recognition.

Create a “win jar” where you write down little victories and drop them in. On days when you’re feeling less than fabulous, pull one out and remind yourself of how far you’ve come. It’s like having a mini cheerleading squad right there in your home!

5. Prioritise You Time

We often hear that we should take time for ourselves, but it’s easier said than done, right? Here’s a secret: “You time” doesn’t have to be a big, extravagant event. It can be as simple as enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite book, doing a little yoga, or binge-watching a show that makes you giggle.

Try to carve out a few moments each day just for you. Even if it’s just five minutes of deep breathing or dancing like no one’s watching, those moments matter. They recharge your spirit and help you show up as the best version of yourself for your family.

6. Surround Yourself with Positivity

Take a look at the people you surround yourself with. Are they supportive and uplifting? If not, it might be time to seek out those who are. Having a positive support network can be a game-changer for your mental health.

Join a mum group (online or in-person), find a local parenting class, or connect with friends who make you laugh. Sharing experiences with others who understand the rollercoaster of motherhood can be incredibly validating.

7. Remember, You’re Not Alone

It’s easy to feel isolated during pregnancy and early motherhood, but remember: you are not alone! Every mum has her struggles, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Whether it’s venting to a friend or joining an online community, sharing your experiences can create a sense of belonging. And who knows? You might find a buddy who’s feeling the same way!

The Sum Up......

So, lovely mamas, let’s commit to treating ourselves with compassion. Embrace your beautiful imperfections, celebrate those little wins, and remember that you deserve kindness and love—just as much as anyone else. After all, you’re doing an amazing job!

Let’s support each other on this wild journey of motherhood and fill our cups with love and compassion. Because when we treat ourselves well, we can shine even brighter for our little ones. Cheers to that!

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