When I made the choice to stop breastfeeding, I gave myself what is known as ‘Mom Shame’.
It didn’t matter how many people told me that I was doing the right thing for both Ryder and myself, I still let the idea of judgment get the best of me. And to be honest, it wasn’t until a good friend of mine (Brooklyn) recommended a certain book (stay tuned) that I was finally able to overcome my dreaded mom shame!
This specific type of shame is so gut wrenching and toxic that it can stop you from enjoying motherhood.
Most of the time, the shame you feel only exists within your own head but there are also times when it can be caused by others. Can you relate? Post baby it is so easy for your emotions to spiral out of control and guilt can become difficult to overcome. If you’re someone who struggles with similar feelings or you just want some advice that comes with witty feedback, then you’re in the right place.
Let me help you overcome mom shame!
You Are a F*cking Awesome Mom: So Embrace the Chaos, Get over the Guilt, and Be True to You
First off, thank you to Lauren Conrad and her awesome podcast for introducing me to this novel by Leslie Ann Bruce. I had been waiting (not-so) patiently for months for it to hit the shelves. I can honestly say that this will not disappoint!
I’m going to ditch the sugar coated half-truths of motherhood and be real with you for a hot minute. This novel will truly help you get over your mom guilt. It will also make you laugh along the way. I absolutely loved how much I relate to Bruce and her much needed honesty. This book felt like I was having a conversation with a friend. You have to check this out for yourself!
Cribsheet
In today’s society, being a parent can be incredibly tough. Family, friends and even strangers giving you unauthorized advice on the “proper” way to raise your children. Thankfully, Emily Oster wrote this book that cuts through the noise and highlights credible information that is backed by scientific research. As a first-hand mother and a professional economist, Oster shares her personal experiences and helps her readers understand that they are not alone.
Oster eliminates the guilt of mom shame and is so over preconceived understandings about parenting. She does this all through the use of objective fact-based science. This novel was ultimately my saving grace when I was grappling with the decision to stop breastfeeding. I was spiraling with self-inflicted mom shame. This book changes things. It allowed me to push through my emotions and feel more confident in my decision. I recommend this for other parents who are looking to shut out the noise and find truth in their own bodies and decisions!
Cat and Nat’s Mom Truths: Embarrassing Stories and Brutally Honest Advice on Extremely Real Struggle of Motherhood
We all need a good laugh that doesn’t come from a children’s movie that has been on repeat for a solid week. Cat and Nat are amazing for writing this. This final novel that I will introduce to you will make you physically laugh out loud as you think “I’ve been there before”. Belknap and Telfer share the good, the bad, and the ugly of mom life – but will ultimately make you understand that you’re not alone. Pair this with a glass of wine for the ultimate experience and you’ll feel like you’re with your best girlfriends swapping stories and advice on the travails of parenthood. When I needed a pick-me-up, this was it. I recommend this for all you mama’s looking to find a community that ditches judgment and offers sanctuary.
There are so many parenting books available.
I know it can be overwhelming to figure out which ones fit your lifestyle but take it from me these ones are good! While these are just a few that I have recently discovered, they have allowed me to control my spiraling emotions of guilt and overcome mom shame. These books also taught me to laugh again. Trust me, they are worth a read! If you’re a new mom and are looking for more on the topic check this out.
