How Affirmations Can Actually Help You Be a More Patient & Present Mom
6. June 2024
Feeling like a burnt-out battery powering a tiny human hurricane? Drowning in endless “Mommy, I need you!” and “But I wanted the red cup!”? You’re not alone. Countless moms struggle with exhaustion, self-doubt, and the feeling of being constantly on edge.
Affirmations are more than just feel-good mantras. They’re a powerful tool for tired moms that can help you rewire your brain, boost your confidence, and remind yourself of the amazing mama you truly are. Let’s explore how affirmations can transform your daily experience from “frazzled” to “fabulous.”
In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of affirmations, why affirmations work, and how you can harness their power to create the life of your dreams.
From “Meh” Mom to Magic Maker: How Affirmations Saved My Sanity (and My Dreams)
Alright, mamas, let’s get real for a second. Affirmations? Law of Attraction? It all sounded a little “woo-woo” to me, too. Sure, I climbed the corporate ladder, snagged some fancy vacations, did all the “adulting” things I thought I should. But deep down, there was this nagging feeling, a vision for something more… something different.
Then, bam! Kids arrived, and my perfectly planned life went hilariously sideways. (Cue the sleep deprivation, tantrums, and a mountain of laundry that mocks you in its never-ending existence.)
I envisioned a smooth transition: get the little ones, hand them off to daycare, and waltz back into the working world, happy as a clam. But the moment I held that tiny human, I knew the script had flipped. This “go-go-go” life wasn’t for me. I craved quality time, real connection with my child, not just a couple of tired hours at the end of the day.
Here’s the thing: in Norway, 94% of kids go to daycare. So, bucking the trend and following this crazy dream of being a present, stay-at-home mom felt… well, scary! I needed some serious rewiring to match this calling I felt burning inside. I needed a tool, a way to rewire my brain and silence the doubts. Enter affirmations.
Now, before you roll your eyes and think “affirmations, yeah right,” hear me out. They’re not a magic bullet. No overnight transformations here. But, with a little time and consistency, affirmations can be a game-changer. Think of them like tiny gym sessions for your brain, building the strength and resilience you need to create the life you truly desire. It’s about replacing the “shoulds” and “supposed-tos” with powerful, positive statements that align with your deepest desires.
Think of it like this: your brain is a garden. You can let weeds of negativity take over, or you can plant seeds of self-belief and optimism. Affirmations are those seeds, and with consistent watering (aka daily practice), they blossom into a mindset that empowers you to create the life you truly crave.
Ready to ditch the “meh” and cultivate some magic in your motherhood journey? Buckle up, mama, because we’re diving deep into the world of affirmations and how they can transform your world (and maybe even your sanity!).
Why Affirmations Work: More Than Just Wishful Thinking
Ever wonder why those positive self-talk stickers work? There’s actual science behind it! When you repeat affirmations [affirmations for moms], it strengthens neural pathways in your brain. These pathways support positive beliefs and behaviors, like patience with your kids or managing stress. Think of it like creating a superhighway for positive thoughts, kicking out negativity and replacing it with a squad of “I can do this!” cheerleaders.
But affirmations have another cool trick. They influence your brain’s “filter system” (called the Reticular Activating System or RAS) to focus on what matters most to you. So, by constantly reminding yourself of your goals (e.g.,overcoming mom guilt), you’re essentially training your brain to spot opportunities that help you achieve them. It’s like having a built-in “success magnet” that attracts experiences that align with your positive affirmations!
Imagine feeling more patient with your kids, or waking up each day with a renewed sense of purpose. Affirmations can help you achieve these things by replacing negativity with self-belief and focusing your energy on the amazing mama you truly are.
Affirmations that Don’t Suck (Because Let’s Be Honest, You’re Tired)
Alright, mama, let’s ditch the vague wishes and create affirmations with some serious punch! Forget vague wishes like “I want to be happy.” We’re going for something more like, “I am a radiant mama, spreading joy and sunshine wherever I go!” (Because let’s face it, a little sunshine is what we all need after a rough night!)
Here’s the secret sauce:
- Specificity: Instead of a wimpy “I want to be happy,” go for the gold with “I am radiating joy and positivity in every moment.” Be specific about what you want to feel and experience.
- Present Tense Power: Phrases like “I am” instead of “I will be” trick your brain into believing you already have what you desire. Think of it like planting a seed – the “present tense” is the sunshine and water that helps it grow!
- Positive Vibes Only: Ditch the negativity. Affirmations like “I won’t lose my cool today” are wrapped in a layer of “I might lose my cool today.” Focus on the positive – “I am a calm and collected mama who handles challenges with grace.”
- Feel the Feels: Your affirmations should make you feel good! If you say them and yawn, ditch them and try something else. You want affirmations that light a fire under your soul, not put you to sleep!
Remember, mama, you’re the CEO of your own mind. Craft affirmations that speak to you, that make you want to shout them from the rooftops (or at least whisper them in the shower – no judgment here!). If it feels forced, it won’t stick.
Unleashing the Power: How to Use Affirmations Like a Boss Mom
From Frazzled to Fabulous: How Affirmations Can Transform Your Motherhood Journey
Alright, mama, you’re sold on the power of affirmations. Now, how do you put them into action and weave them into the beautiful chaos of motherhood? Here are a few ways to make affirmations a part of your daily routine:
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Who’s the Most Magical Mama of All?
Start your day with a powerful dose of self-love! Stand in front of the mirror, look yourself in the eye (even if your hair is a disaster zone), and repeat your affirmations with conviction. Seeing yourself say them adds another layer of power to the practice.
Subliminal Shenanigans (For the Sneaky Mamas)
Technology is your friend, mama! There are tons of apps that create subliminal affirmation messages. These messages are delivered below the conscious level of awareness, gently reinforcing your positive beliefs throughout the day. You won’t even consciously hear them, but your subconscious mind will be soaking them up like a sponge.
Mantra on the Move: Walking Affirmations
Turn your daily walk (or stroller stroll) into a moving meditation. Repeat your affirmations as you walk, letting the rhythm of your steps and the fresh air amplify their power. Bonus points if you can get your little one involved – make up silly affirmations together!
Meditation Magic
Meditation is a fantastic way to quiet the mind and focus on your intentions. Incorporate your affirmations into your meditation practice. Repeat them silently or aloud, focusing on the emotions they evoke.
Sticky Note Symphony: Affirmations All Around the House
Let your affirmations become part of your environment! Write them on sticky notes and place them in strategic spots around the house. Slap one on the bathroom mirror, another on the coffee pot, or even tuck one under your child’s pillow (a sweet reminder for both of you!). Every time you see that sticky note, it’s a mini pep talk to keep you motivated.
Shower Power: Affirmations in the Steam
The shower is a magical place for tired moms. Turn it into your personal affirmation sanctuary! While the hot water melts away your stress, repeat your affirmations aloud. The combination of the sound of your voice and the steamy atmosphere creates a powerful space for self-reflection and intention setting.
Gratitude Groove:
Combine the power of affirmations with gratitude! Turn your affirmations into statements of gratitude, like “I am grateful for my patience and strength.” Focusing on what you’re thankful for will naturally boost your mood and positive outlook.
Before Bed Bliss: Drift Off with Affirmations
As you wind down for the night, take a few minutes to repeat your affirmations in bed. This helps to quiet your mind, promote positive self-talk, and program your subconscious for a peaceful and empowering sleep.
The Power of “We”:
Being a mom can feel isolating sometimes. So why not involve your little ones? Create affirmations together, focusing on qualities like kindness, patience, and joy. This is a fun way to bond with your child and teach them the power of positive self-talk.
Remember, mamas, the key is to find what works for YOU. Experiment, have fun, and get creative! The more you integrate affirmations into your daily life, the more you’ll experience the transformative power of positive self-talk. Let’s ditch the exhaustion and embrace the magic of motherhood, one powerful affirmation at a time!
Sample Affirmations for Drained Mothers:
- I am a patient and present mama.
- I am a calm and capable mama. Today will be a good day.
- My strength and resilience are limitless.
- This too shall pass. I can handle anything.
- My love for my child fuels my energy.
- My patience is overflowing. I choose to see the good in my children.
- This is just a season. I am growing with my children, and we are getting stronger together.
You Got This, Mama: The Power is in Your Hands
As a mother, you juggle countless responsibilities and pour your heart and soul into caring for your family. Amidst the chaos and demands of daily life, it’s easy to neglect your own needs and forget the power you hold within. Affirmations offer you a lifeline—a way to reconnect with your inner wisdom, tap into your limitless potential, and create a life filled with joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
Here’s the thing, mama: you are not alone! Every mom experiences moments of doubt, exhaustion, and feeling like they’re stuck. But remember, you are stronger and more capable than you think.
Ready to ditch the negative self-talk and unlock your full potential?
In my free guide, “Moms Unstuck“, I’ll walk you through 5 powerful steps to overcome the limiting beliefs that hold you back. You’ll learn how to rewire your brain for positivity, silence the inner critic, and finally achieve the goals and dreams you deserve.
Don’t wait another day feeling stuck, mama. Click the link below to grab your free copy of “Moms Unstuck“ and start your journey to becoming the best version of yourself!
www.cathleenlackner.com/momsunstuck
Remember, you are a magical mama, and the power to create a life you love lies within you. Let affirmations be your guide, and watch your world transform!
With unwavering belief in your potential,
Cathleen
