Dear Mamas,
So this is not exactly art related, but just life-related. One of my main goals in making my own art to share, and in giving you tips and tricks for making your own art, is simply to add some positivity and brightness into your day. Really, this goes for everyone, but I especially want to give a shout out to the mamas, because, well, I am one! I wanted to just send a short love note, to say that you are loved, and you are doing a great job!!
Several months ago, I listened to a podcast, Whiskey and Work, by Kelsey Murphy. While there are lots of listen-worthy episodes, there is one episode in particular that I have thought of and gone back to several times—especially on the days that I am really doubting myself, my mothering skills, etc. In the episode, Kelsey says, “You’re doing a great job.” Her point is, we are not perfect—we are all a work in progress—but still, we are doing our best, and we ARE doing a great job! It’s simple, but I think it’s true—and important that we learn how to tell ourselves this—regularly!
It might sound overly simplistic, but when I break down what a lot of my bad moods are all about—a lot of it is negative self-talk: you didn’t get enough done, you aren’t being present enough with the boys, you’re disorganized, you’re not good enough at (fill in the blank for the day). I often don’t even notice that I’m having those thoughts, because they are so automatic that I take them as reality!
I know that I am not alone in this. So do yourself a favor, and listen to this podcast episode. Or at the very least—start telling yourself—and meaning it—YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB!! Our ability to care for ourselves and others is much improved when we are feeling good, and when we know we’re working to make a positive impact.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash