7 Things I’ve Been Practicing To Make Motherhood Sweeter
Last night I was up late nursing my daughter and I got this download that I quickly wrote in my notes before falling back into a deep sleep. Lately, I’ve been applying different small ways in the day-to-day that help to bring more enjoyment and peace into motherhood and I felt led to share some of those with you. Now, I want to remind you that true joy will be found in Jesus and doing all things with Him. You’ve also probably already heard all these ideas by now, but if you’re seeing things that are repeated, you should pay attention, as there’s usually something to it and requires application.
Here are 7 different things I’ve applied into my own life I’m currently practicing:
(My non-negotiable) - time in the secret place. If you don’t know what the secret place is, it’s simply when you get alone with the Father and spend time with Him. It might look like being on your knees in worship, prayer, reading the Word, or simply listening.
SLOW DOWN. Ugh, so much easier said then done, I know. So, what do you do when your baby is crying, your toddler is throwing a tantrum because they didn’t like what you cooked for them, and you have yet to take a sip of water (not to mention it’s 9pm)? Slowing down is a game-changer for your nervous system. It’s helped me to not react to the situations around me, but able to calmly respond without my body being sent into fight or flight mode.
Getting dressed for the day. I love putting on a dress that makes me feel beautiful. Not only does it make my day feel more productive, but I know my husband loves it (they might not admit it, but husbands love when you put in effort!) Wearing dresses have felt more practical and comfortable. It also takes the effort out of needing to plan an outfit on top of all the other decisions needed to make throughout the day.
Praying for my family. Have you ever tried praying for someone you might be going through a hard time with and found your heart instantly soften? Not only does it do wonders for prepping your heart for the day, but something actually shifts as we pray. You’re communicating with the God who created the universe! Set a reminder to practice this at the same time daily (while folding clothes, washing dishes, or putting away toys) and watch what happens.
Focus on connection over cleaning. I want my children to remember me not by how hard I worked to maintain a clean home, but by stopping what I was doing to look them in the eye. Raising littles will always be prioritized over homemaking.
Not aiming for perfection. Wow did this burn me out quick, because it’s quite impossible to achieve. When you mess up, be quick to repent to your husband or children, and ask the Lord for ways every day you can grow! Make sure to journal it so you can watch your progress.
Spend time outside. Whether it’s daily prayer walks, going to the park, taking a hike, or a picnic. This is one I’m currently trying to be more disciplined in, as it can seem so much easier to stay inside having a toddler and an infant who needs to be fed every 2 hours, but the danger to that is isolation. It’s so much healthier mentally, emotionally and physically for you and the kids. Aim every day to get fresh air!
Whether you choose to practice these or not, I want to remind you that the work you’re doing as a mom is incredibly important, and it should also be enjoyable! Yes, it’s true it’s hard work, and there will be tough days, but focusing on little adjustments to your day can make the world of a difference in the long-run!
Scripture to meditate on this week:
Psalm 127:3, “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”
