What’s the #1 thing moms of teens struggle with?
From a recent survey I conducted, I found that negative thinking is the biggest struggle for most moms. I have a few ideas on how to overcome negative thinking. These have worked for me time and again.
Most critical thoughts are made up: First of all most things we think have to be a certain way, are just made up. They are not true. There is no perfect mother. She doesn't exist. So rather than trying so hard to be perfect, why not ask yourself, what feels good to me? How would I like to show up? And "are these negative thoughts serving me?"
Start to wonder: I would invite you to take a new perspective. Let go of old patterns or beliefs, so your life can shift to new possibilities. "How would you LIKE to do it?" "What sounds fun to you?" "Is there another way to look at things?" Asking yourself new questions and being open to the answers, keeps a flow of energy going. Change your body posture: When negative thoughts hit you, it is easy to cower, and close in. To hunch over and protect yourself. To be afraid. What I am suggesting is to change your posture to a more open stance. To breathe into your belly and allow your head to be over your shoulders and your shoulders back. This posture brings in new life. It helps you see your worth. That you deserve to be here. Relax your shoulders and keep an open posture.
Shake it off: Another way to overcome negative thinking is to shake your shoulders and head. It is easy to freeze in fear. I would invite you to do the opposite. To wiggle and move your body instead and see how you feel afterwards. You don't have to be frozen. Wiggling gives us new options.
Give yourself some extra love: So much of the time, as moms we are giving to who ever needs us at the time. But I would invite you to allow yourself to receive. How much love can you hold? How much goodness can you see in yourself. Love yourself for who you are. Even the parts that seem unlovable. Love them too. Allow yourself to celebrate who you are. And all the efforts you are making as a mom. And as a person. You give so much. Try to take some time to give back to yourself. Notice and appreciate who you are.
Get outside: Try a new perspective by moving your body. Getting outside and breathing fresh air, even if it is cold, feels really good. Stretch out your arms wide and see how you feel in your body. Then go create something new! Play and have fun!
These are just a few ways to get out of negative thinking. I want you to know, you have a choice in how you see the world. Criticism is easy, but it never feels good. And it keeps us stuck in the same place. No one ever achieved great things by criticizing themselves. You deserve better. Especially as a mom. Allow yourself to feel good instead.
Rooting for you!
Love, Julie
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