To all the mommies out there, who are used to hearing the expression “Happy Mother’s Day,” I want you to think of it differently this year. I’ve decided, May 10th is not just Mother’s Day, it’s Happy Mothers Day…a day for all mothers to feel happy. In fact, every day should be a happy mothers day!
With so many people out there just going through the motions, I’d like to celebrate the fact that all moms are deserving of happiness. Take a moment to celebrate all things happy, and all of the happiness that mommies bring to the world.
As a mom myself, I know how easy it is to get bogged down in all of the responsibilities that come along with being a mother. Our own happiness is often put on the back burner in order to provide comfort, security, nourishment, and entertainment for our little ones. Most of the time moms think they have to put their kiddos first, but it is equally, if not more, important to take care of ourselves.
I often say, “Happy mommy, equals happy children.” If mom is not happy, then no one is. Your munchkins feed off of your energy, so if you don’t make your own happiness a priority, they feel it. Ever notice how when you’re in a good mood, life just seems to flow easily? You know those times where there are more feel good moments, and your kids just seem to magically be on their best behavior? It’s no coincidence, and it’s not magic…it’s because when you are happy, you can show up and do things with patience, generosity, and love. In those moments, motherhood doesn’t feel like sacrifice, it feels like pure joy.
When you focus on the all of the amazing little aspects of being a mom, it feels good. When you feel good, being a patient, loving, open, calm mom is easy. Giving yourself permission to let go of how you think you “should” be, and what everyone else is doing or not doing, opens you up to a world with far less stress and anxiety about how you’re doing as a mommy.
Changing the way we think about things as moms is the key to being a happy mother. Instead of being irritated that your three year old only wants mommy and you barely have a moment to take a shower, remember one day she won’t need you like she does today, and you will miss it. Try and savor it. When your baby is awake at 3am, and you just wish he would sleep through the night, remember those quiet nighttime snuggles won’t last forever. When your teenager is giving you attitude, remember she will be moving out in a few years, and you will miss having her around.
It can be tricky at times for us to keep our cool in the midst of the chaos that motherhood brings, but being kind to ourselves, and learning to let things go is so powerful. Motherhood doesn’t have to be so serious. In fact, when we are able to let our guards down, and just be present, there is an abundance of happy inducing moments.
Take it in when your infant curls his fingers around yours. Get silly, and act as if you are still a kid with your toddler. Ask your kids about their favorite parts of their days. Cherish it when your teenagers ask you for advice. These are the moments that mean the most if you are able to let go of your fears and desires for perfection. Treat yourself with the love and kindness that you offer to your children each day. You deserve it.
Thank you to all of you mommas out there who give it your all each day. Whether your kids are little, or all grown up, being a mom is the most challenging and most rewarding (if you allow it) job there is. Today, give thanks to yourself, your mom, and all of the other moms out there who are doing the best they can. Be grateful for each moment, and let the good feelings flow. Happy Happy Mothers Day to all of the moms out there!!
