If you’re a new mom, read this

3 years ago, I had just given birth to my first baby. My nipples were raw and bleeding, I was crying all the time, beyond exhausted and wondering if I was cut out to be a mom. All I could see was that moment, that day, and how painful and hard it all was.

The funny thing is, I didn't know how much harder the upcoming months after that would be. Not in a physical pain sense, but emotionally. I didn't know how terribly sleep-deprived I was going to get. I didn't know how much anxiety and rage I'd develop. I didn't know how burnt out I was going to get putting everyone else ahead of me. I didn't know how frustrated and disappointed I'd be in own body. I didn't know so many of my relationships would change. I didn't know that I would lose my own identity.

Today, I want to give that mom a huge hug. I want to tell her to hang in there. Tell her that it's so hard right now, and it WILL get better. That she doesn't have to enjoy every part of motherhood, and it doesn't mean she loves her baby any less.

I want to tell her that she needs to ask for and accept help because she can't do it all, nor should she try. I want to tell her to be more selfish and think about herself first.

I want to tell her to trust herself. Trust her body. Trust that she's capable.

You're not meant to figure out motherhood in 3 days, 3 weeks or 3 months. I'm 3 years in and I learn new things every single day! If you find it challenging right now, that's because it IS challenging. There's absolutely nothing wrong with you!

On my bike ride today, enjoying the glorious sunshine with my family, I couldn't help but feel so damn grateful. I'm still in the early months of being a mom of 2, and I'll be honest, many days are extremely hard and exhausting.

The difference now is I know that everything is a phase. I try to accept the season I'm in, rather than fighting it. I surround myself with people who understand and support me. I practice self-compassion, self-kindness and self-love.

So if you're a mama in this new stage of your life, I hope reading this brings you some comfort. Know that you are truly never alone, even if sometimes you feel lonely. I see you. And you are truly amazing 💜