5 Resolutions Every Mom Should Make in 2019
It’s funny that the beginning of each new year resembles the beginning of last year: the weather is colder, the gym is suddenly more crowded now than it was in late December and everyone at work is talking about setting personal goals for the next 365 days.
New Year’s resolutions may sometimes feel like a forced cliché, but setting goals — even if you don’t end up achieving them — allows you to take a moment and reflect on your life and values. What’s truly important to you? Who do you want to be when you grow up?
And for new moms: what kind of parent do you see yourself becoming?
Gaining clarity and perspective is important for your well-being and the well-being of others around you, including your kids. Whether you’re still expecting your first little one or you’re already on Baby #3, the new year represents opportunity. So, we at Tummy Cradle have come up with five resolutions we think every mom should consider — but remember that, like everything, it’s a personal journey and this is just material to get you started:
1. Drink more water.
Drinking water is one of those easy fixes we all accidentally forget about, but hydration has a major effect on mood and brain functionality — and, let’s be real, carrying a water bottle around or opting for water with lemon when eating out are two pretty simple ways get your recommended 11.5 daily cups (2.7 liters). Mommas-to-be and breastfeeding mothers are drinking for two, so they need even more fluids than the rest.
Don’t forget that water lives naturally in fruits and veggies, so eating a healthy diet can improve your hydration as well!
2. Be a better friend.
It’s easy to want to spend all your time with your family, especially after the arrival of a new, adorable member — but everyone can benefit from a change of scenery (and company) sometimes. A recent study found that authentic friendships — in which you feel comfortable and unconditionally accepted — is crucial to a mother’s psychological health. Plus, your friends probably miss you!
3. Go to bed a little earlier.
Much like staying hydrated, the benefits of getting enough sleep are plentiful: it reduces stress, lowers risk of serious health conditions, and can even boost your metabolism. You don’t necessarily have to abide by the same bedtime you set for your kids, but most adults need between seven and eight hours of quality sleep every night.
If you’re pregnant and struggling to get regular sleep, try investing in a great pregnancy pillow for maximum physical comfort.
4. Pack your lunch more often.
One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to save money, but we think that’s a little broad to be feasible. Try starting small by vowing to pack your lunch more often. You’re already filling a paper sack for your school-goin’ kiddos, so why not double the portions to shave about $10 off your daily spending?
Packing your own lunch also means you have more control over ingredients, inspiring more conscious diet decisions and a healthier lifestyle overall.
5. Disconnect daily.
Studies show that increased screen time can decrease our ability to empathize, especially in children. This year, find some screenless activities to do with your kids everyday — it’s as simple as playing outside or reading a book, but it encourages healthy emotional development and lower stress levels.
New Year, New Mom
We’re sure you noticed that most of our resolutions are designed to improve the quality of life for you, the reader and mother. There are lots of great goals that deal with being a better parent — but we know that you can only reach your max parent potential when your own health and happiness is in check. Plus, we’re not in the business of relaying specific parenting advice; we’re here to support moms, both through pregnancy and during parenthood.
Happy 2019!
