Mom, STOP the Comparison Game!

Mom, your life has changed! (You're probably saying under your breath, NO KIDDING!) You have a lot to manage. Your situation is not exactly like your best friend’s circumstances. You have unique needs and so does your family. You don't have to do your mothering like anyone else -- even those you admire greatly. 

You can STOP the Mom-Comparison-Game and set grace-filled goals that match YOU and your family. It's okay with God to slow it down and do what fits you.  

“Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. . . . Don’t compare yourself with others. "Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life” (Galatians 6:4–5 MSG).

You’re the Mom; God’s Your Helper.  The following suggestions are designed to assist you in discovering your unique motherhood needs:   

•  Ask “What do I really want to do?” When you’re in a quandary about a decision, hopefully your response(s) will help you decipher which is your desire or need and not merely what someone else wants you to do.
• When you get into bed at night, instead of praying “Lord, what did I do wrong today?” and then ruminating about what you coulda- shoulda- woulda done, pray, “What did I do right, Lord?” Then listen to how God’s spirit prompts you, and praise Him for your blessings and His help.
• When you’re overly tired, lacking energy, or just plain overwhelmed with the mundane-ness of mommy-hood, ask yourself “Since I’m going to do this activity or task anyway, how can I do it easier (or even with a little fun)?”
• Before you get out of bed in the morning, take thirty seconds to talk to God. Request His guidance and help for your day. Consider asking, “Lord, what do You want to show me today?” Then watch for evidence of His love and direction.
  

God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper.” Hebrews 13:5–6 NLT

Which of these suggestions will YOU try this week?

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Adapted from an excerpt in Nourishment for New Moms by Joan C. Webb.

GIVE YOURSELF OR ANOTHER MOTHER THIS SPECIAL GIFT FOR MOTHER'S DAY!

Find the answers and encouragement you need to tackle this life-altering transition in the sage advice, practical strategies, and biblically based pointers in my book Nourishment for New Moms. It's sure to help you survive the challenges of motherhood--with grace, poise and humor intact.

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