Maternity leave is a precious time that every new mom deserves. After navigating through a pregnancy while juggling a full-time job, you’ve rightfully earned those 6 to 12 weeks to bond with your little one. Congratulations are in order! But let’s face it, the journey into motherhood comes with its own set of challenges. Suddenly, a tiny human is relying on you to be their everything, and the pressure can be overwhelming. It’s astonishing how many expectations are placed on new mothers during this sacred time.
During my own maternity leave, I encountered my fair share of unsolicited advice and unwelcome touches, which only added to the emotional rollercoaster of being a new mom. I realized I had to set boundaries to truly enjoy those fleeting moments with my newborn. Here are three things I refuse to apologize for during maternity leave:
Claiming My Baby Time
I cannot comprehend the notion that new mothers are “hogging” their babies. It’s absurd! This little one is mine, and I have every right to hold them as much as I want. Maternity leave is a time for bonding, and I won’t feel guilty for wanting to snuggle my baby without feeling pressured to share. Friends and family may be eager to hold the baby, but I’m the one who gets to enjoy the lion’s share of those cuddles. When my sister-in-law tried to express her feelings about not getting enough time with my baby, I calmly reminded her, “I’m the mom. I already won that right.”
Setting Visitor Boundaries
While I understand the excitement surrounding a newborn, I firmly believe that unexpected visitors should be avoided. I made it clear to everyone that I would appreciate a heads-up before they dropped by. A simple 10-15 minute courtesy call is all I ask. If someone shows up unannounced, they can expect to be turned away. Even my own mother has tried to break this rule, but I stand firm. With a loud dog and a potential for chaos, I need to be prepared. After all, you wouldn’t want to walk into a scene where I’m half-dressed or trying to calm a screaming baby.
Respecting My Parenting Choices
I know you think that outfit is adorable, but no thank you. I refuse to treat my baby like a doll just because someone else thinks they look cute. The reality is that those tiny clothes often just end up causing more stress than joy, with diaper blowouts being a real threat. When relatives ask why my baby isn’t wearing a gift they brought, I gently remind them that practicality takes precedence over fashion. If I didn’t choose it, it likely won’t be making an appearance in our precious bonding time.
Navigating the transition from a new mom to returning to work can be overwhelming, and those 12 weeks of maternity leave can vanish in the blink of an eye. It’s essential to prioritize your well-being and fully embrace this transformative time without apologies.
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In summary, maternity leave is a time for new moms to embrace their roles and prioritize their needs without feeling guilty. Setting boundaries, claiming your baby time, and making practical choices are all part of the journey.
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