As a new mom, being in the moment was one of the hardest skills to learn. Who wants to be fully in the moment when a baby is screaming? How can a parent enjoy the experience of changing a smelly diaper? Really, let's get serious.
Before our son arrived, I --along with most busy professionals-- lived in a world where we boasted about our multitasking skills. I brought that sense of pride to my early parenting days thinking that I would be able to read the paper while feeding our son or wash dishes while he was in the bouncy seat. I soon realized that every time I chose to do two or more things while caring for our boy, I was missing out on connecting with him and being with him.
How to be in the moment even when we dread (or are overwhelmed by) the change before us?
- Acknowledge what you are feeling (whatever it is).
- Question why you are feeling this way. Is it triggering any past memories?
- Try to find one positive thing about the experience.
