Becoming a mother is a life-altering gift. However,  it’s easy to lose oneself when caring for an infant, and no amount of babysitting or reading blogs can equip us with motherhood’s unique challenges.

“In order for your parent mindset shift to occur, you have to trust that there is a place for your parent mind to shift to” states Brooke Benevento, Founder/CEO of Passion Into Purpose Coaching and LandHome Design.

“The fact that you will have to sacrifice a piece of you as a mother will always be a part of your motherhood journey. However,  you can create a healthy happy balance for you and your child. . You are your child’s role model, influencer, and guide until the day you die . . With conscious parenting you can stay true to who you are and in turn give your child a head start in life.”

Over the years, parenthood has taught us that to be the mother your children need, you must first take all reasonable steps to ensure your own well-being. Here are a few beginner tips Brooke Benevento shares about some mindset shifts that you can practice before/after bringing your bundle of joy home.

Accept the changes you are  undergoing 

Recognize the physical changes that are starting to happen to your body while you are pregnant. You are engaging in one of the most beautiful miracles of nature, enjoy it.    “Accepting the changes that are taking place will enable you to enjoy your pregnancy and create a loving space for you and your unborn child. ,” states Brooke.

Set Simple Goals for when you bring the baby home 

Focus on being patient with yourself and your baby’s needs. Take things slow and leave space for you and your baby to bond without the pressures of life. It’s ok to ask close friends or family for help. If you need help with meals, dishes, laundry, or house cleaning make sure to reach out before the baby arrives to see who is available to help for the first few weeks so you can have some stress-free bonding with your baby. Remember, this is your time as a new mom and you get to decide how others get to help you. Help doesn’t always look like them holding the baby and you do the chores. Help is whatever you decide it to be.

Make time for yourself

Self-care is also crucial during this time. When mom is happy, so is her baby. If possible, get your baby settled with another caregiver and take some time to take a hot bath or shower and relax. Maybe, even take a little nap to recharge if needed. Going for a quick walk if you are up for it is also a great way to reconnect with yourself. Nature has an amazing way of grounding our souls and helping us recharge. The key is to find what works for you and make it a habit and incorporate it into your life on a regular basis.

The bottom line: you don’t have to lose yourself in motherhood

Being a mother has many benefits, including fostering enduring ties with your family and assisting them in learning and growth. However, if you are continually depressed and unhappy, it may be challenging to realize these advantages. And what do we desire most for our children? The answer is to watch them prosper and achieve their most ardent aspirations. ” You need to assume the same of yourself,” states Brooke Benevento. “You must always pursue your aspirations if you want your children to do the same for themselves. You are their guiding light and you must show them just as much as you advise them,” she adds.

Furthermore, there is no perfect parent and there are no perfect children. With preparation and some positive goals for yourself as a parent, you will become the best parent you were meant to be.