Becoming a mom for the first time is a mix of excitement, nerves, and a whole lot of unknowns. As a mom of four, I’ve been there. Labor is a big deal, and it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed. But with the right tips, you can head into your birth experience feeling more prepared and confident. Let’s dive into some straightforward advice to help you get ready.

Every mom wrestles with shame thoughts at some point. You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. You’re showing up for your kids, even on the hard days. That’s enough.

So the next time shame whispers in your ear, remind yourself: You are worthy. You are doing enough. And you are loved—exactly as you are.

Connect: Other adoptive parents get it. They won’t judge when you confess that you hid in the bathroom for five minutes of quiet. Laugh Whenever You Can: You’ll need humor to survive. Did your kid try to microwave a fork? That’s tomorrow’s dinner party story. Take Breaks: Even if it’s just a walk around the block or locking yourself in the pantry to eat chocolate in peace.

Being a mom to a daughter is an incredible journey. It’s filled with giggles, growing pains, and plenty of life lessons. But with all the joys come moments of self-doubt. You might wonder, “Am I doing enough?” or “Am I teaching her the right values?” Let’s take a deep breath and tackle this together. You’re doing better than you think, and there are practical ways to keep showing up for your girl.

Communicating your needs can feel tricky. For moms, it might even feel impossible some days. We’re so used to taking care of everyone else that asking for what we need feels selfish. But guess what? It’s not. Taking care of your needs helps you take care of others.

Do you ever find yourself wide awake at 3 AM, googling “signs of depression” or replaying a conversation from two years ago that you wish had gone differently?