As a mother, I’ve found that it’s easy to get sucked into the bubble that is my home and family, especially since I’m already quite introverted to begin with. But for my own well-being, I need to make sure I leave that bubble sometimes, and having friends who can understand “mom life” (even if they aren’t parents themselves) has been so important.
If you’re a mom as well, there are few types of friends who you should absolutely hang on to -they will make your life and your responsibilities as a mom so much easier and more pleasant!
THE EXPERIENCED MOM FRIEND
Sure, there are a lot of people out there willing to give you parenting advice, but when you find that one friend who can generously share their knowledge with you in a way that isn’t condescending and that considers situational differences, that’s a friend you’ll want to hang on to. She has been through it all, and she genuinely cares about helping you, as opposed to coming across as World’s Best Mom.
THE NEW MOM FRIEND
Just like how teachers can often learn a thing or two from the students they teach, you can learn a thing or two from a friend who has more recently become a parent. Parenting philosophies, methodologies, and even technology is dynamic and ever-changing, and a newer mom who has been doing her research might have some new tips, tricks, or ideas to offer that were not around when you were a newer mom yourself, even if your kids are just a few years apart.
THE NON-PARENT FRIEND
Sometimes you need to cast off your “mom” hat and spend some time getting in touch with the non-mommy side of yourself. When you need to spend an evening with grown-ups and not pulling Cheeto crumbs out of your hair, call your friend who isn’t a parent. She is someone who can definitely understand that it’s perfectly fine and not selfish to nurture the parts of you outside of parenting life, but she will also make sure that you don’t go overboard a la Bad Moms.
Who are your essential friends, as a parent? Let us know in the comments!
(Featured image via Pixabay)
VINAZINE 