There has been considerable discussion about the challenges of motherhood, with many women experiencing fears and anxieties throughout pregnancy and beyond. My aim is to support these women by sharing my natural optimism and passion for practical solutions to simplify the journey of motherhood. I focus on the everyday aspects of being a mother that some may view as mundane or unglamorous, such as cleaning, cooking, and entertaining.
I showcase this facet of parenting through polished routine videos, cleaning tutorials, as well as weaning and breastfeeding tips, among other topics. My goal is to demonstrate that when approached with pride and affection, these seemingly ordinary moments enhance our daily “Mum Lives,” leading to content children, clever cleaning shortcuts, and invaluable breastfeeding advice that eases nighttime feeds. By transforming the mundane into something aspirational, I aim to support women entering motherhood and attract brands looking to celebrate the journey of motherhood alongside us.
My personal experience transitioning from a busy marketing director to a dedicated “mummy” was not without its challenges. While I cherished the opportunity to be a full-time mother to my boys, I missed the adult interactions I had at work, which took a toll on my self-confidence. One aspect I truly appreciated was learning tips and tricks from fellow mothers on YouTube. Discovering simple yet effective strategies while navigating the highs and lows of motherhood saved me time, energy, and money, and provided much-needed solace during trying times.
As a mother of three energetic boys, I understand firsthand the chaos of daily life and the struggle to find a sustainable balance that prevents burnout. While parenting is fulfilling and rewarding, it can also be isolating, demanding, and physically and mentally draining. Prioritizing self-care as a parent is essential for maintaining overall well-being, rejuvenating your spirit, and enabling you to be the best parent possible for your children.
Neglecting your own needs in favor of your children’s can lead to feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion. Taking breaks and carving out time for yourself is crucial to reducing stress and preserving your mental and emotional health. It’s important not to feel guilty about prioritizing self-care; instead, it sets a positive example for your children on the importance of self-love and care.
Despite grappling with intense “mum guilt,” I’ve found that engaging in activities like exercise (for health reasons) or multitasking by listening to podcasts or audiobooks while completing chores helps alleviate guilt. Mothers deserve moments of relaxation and respite, and it’s essential to debunk the notion that basic self-care activities like showering constitute “me time” post-parenthood.
Parents commonly face challenges such as balancing work and home life, financial strains exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis, and sleep deprivation that can amplify everyday tasks. Additionally, managing children’s behavior and implementing gentle disciplinary techniques pose additional hurdles for parents.
Amidst the profound feelings of joy, love, and fulfillment that parenthood brings, self-doubt, guilt, and stress may also surface. It’s crucial to acknowledge that everyone encounters challenges, and individual circumstances vary widely. Seeking support from friends and family, and prioritizing self-care through established routines and habits, can significantly alleviate these struggles.
Inspired by my decade-long experience creating YouTube videos on parenting hacks and habits, which have garnered over 200 million views, I decided to pen my book, “Things I Wish I’d Known.” This comprehensive guide is a culmination of practical tips and tested strategies aimed at fostering harmony within families and carving out essential “me time.” It serves as the resource I yearned for when embarking on parenthood 13 years ago, offering honest, relatable advice to streamline family life.
Parenting is undeniably challenging, encompassing moments of tedium, loneliness, and stress. Over the years, adopting simple yet effective strategies has saved me time, energy, and money. I am thrilled to share my hindsight and passion for discovering life hacks with others. While organization doesn’t come naturally to me, I have developed numerous strategies to stay on track, many of which are detailed in my book. If these methods have proven beneficial to me, they may undoubtedly benefit others as well.
Even for non-parents, my book contains a wealth of tips to simplify daily life. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to become consumed by work and overlook self-care. I’ve incorporated numerous “moments for you” throughout the pages, ranging from affirmations and breathing exercises to simple activities like walks or baths—gentle reminders that self-care is paramount. Remember, just as on a flight, attending to your well-being first ensures you can offer the best version of yourself to others.
Motherhood has been a profound learning experience for me, unveiling strengths and resilience I never knew I possessed. It has taught me patience, selflessness, and the art of balancing multiple responsibilities of varying significance. Above all, motherhood has instilled in me a deep sense of unconditional love, empathy, and understanding. While the journey of parenting presents diverse challenges, it remains transformative in the most positive sense.
“Things I Wish I’d Known” by Emily Norris is now available, offering practical insights and advice (Vermillion, hardback, £16.99).