Can Social Media Trip You Up As a New Parent?
It's easy to feel like you're not doing enough when you're bombarded by unrealistic influencer expectations.
SOCIAL DYNAMICS
The messy reality of parenting and why to embrace your own style
Are you a new parent feeling overwhelmed by the images of seemingly flawless mums and dads on social media?
Parenting can be a wild ride, and it's not always picture-perfect. Feeding and changing nappies and trying to keep your house from looking like a tornado hit can overwhelm you. It's easy to feel like you're not measuring up to the seemingly perfect parents on Instagram and TikTok. But the truth is, there's no such thing as ideal parenting. It's all about finding your own style and what works best for your family.
So, take a deep breath, and embrace your own parenting style. Whether you love rules and routines or you are a more relaxed, "everything goes" type of parent, focus on your own family's needs and goals, and don't worry about what others are doing. Each family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't be afraid to try new things and experiment with different approaches.
‘‘Parenting is a constant learning experience, and it's okay to make mistakes along the way. After all, how else will you learn what works best for you and your family?’’
And remember, things can get unpredictable, and that's okay. Embrace the chaos and uncertainty, and don't worry about having everything figured out. If you're feeling like you're struggling, know that you're not alone. Reach out to your friends, family, or a support group for help.
And most importantly, take a moment to recognise your own accomplishments. You're doing an amazing job, even if it doesn't always feel like it.
Take some time for yourself
You deserve a break! So, what can you do to pamper yourself? Well, it's up to you. It could be something as simple as taking a hot bath with some bubbles and relaxing music in the background. Or maybe you prefer to step outside and enjoy a run around the neighbourhood to clear your mind. Why not treat yourself to a cup of coffee or a pint and talk with a friend?
The bottom line is that a little self-care can go a long way. It can help reduce stress, increase your energy levels, and boost your overall well-being. Plus, it sets a good example for your kids to prioritise their own self-care needs as they grow older.
You might opt for spending quality time with your partner. Whether it's a date night or just a few hours of quiet at home without the kids, taking time to connect with your significant other can help you recharge and refocus. Your relationship with your partner is just as important as your relationship with your children, and taking time to nurture that bond can help strengthen your family as a whole.
Keep on keeping on
And remember to have a little bit of fun along the way. Because there's no better laugh than the one you have when your child does something silly! Remember to be kind to yourself and enjoy the journey; those little feet won't be little forever.
So take a deep breath and savour the memories, both the good and the not-so-good; they're what make the journey so special.
Source:
-Chee, R. M., Capper, T. S., Muurlink, O. T. (2023). The impact of social media influencers on pregnancy, birth, and early parenting experiences: A systematic review. Midwifery.
