Being a mom can be lonely.
There are so many aspects of life that are different from those who are around you. If you take on the majority of the care and feeding for your children, then you are likely keeping mental track of many things that your husband is not. For instance, what your children have had to eat today, what activities are on the calendar next, what clothes need to be washed, how much time until bed time, and what needs to happen before then, etc.
For the stay-at-home mom, the challenges of teaching a toddler are different than (most!) circumstances in the work place. The juggling and struggle for balance of a working mom can be hard to relate to for the stay-at-home mom or friends who aren’t mothers. I’m challenging you in this time of motherhood to reach out and find some mom friends. We are made for relationships and thrive with a network of social support!
I know it can be hard, especially if you are in the middle of the little years with your kids. Or if you just moved, or if you’re going through a really busy time, or if you’re an introvert. The list could go on. You can fill in your reason here…but, I’m still going to lay down this challenge! Because as hard as it is to get out there and find some great friendships, the rewards are priceless.
Support from another mom who’s in the same stage as you are or the guidance from one who has gone before you are exactly what you need on those days you think you might lose your mind! Even if your mom friends and friendships mostly consist of texting because time and children limit your ability to talk on the phone or get together often, I promise you it’s worth it. Put yourself out there!
So how, you might ask?
Well, the first thing you should do is look around you. Is there anyone in your life right now who you could connect with deeper? A neighbor you could chat with for a couple of minutes? Someone from that toddler class you take your child to? That woman you always smile at as you pass on your way to pick up your child at church? Try slowing down for a few minutes to strike up a conversation with her and see where that leads!
Next, try joining an activity where like-minded people might be. A women’s breakfast at your church, a parenting class, a mom’s group, a free play session at a local children’s play place. Follow the advice we’re always giving our children and ‘be brave!’ They will thank you for it later because they will learn to have better friendships by watching yours!!
Be sure to comment below with your great ideas for finding mom friends!
