The only 3 things you need to know to be a good mum

Motherhood is a tough gig. To smack or not to smack. Breastfeed or bottle. In your bed, out of your bed. The list goes on. But I think that quite possibly, there only 3 things you need to know to be a good mum.

There is always a plethora of experts (and non-experts too) telling you how to bring up your kids. Books, blogs, baby whisperers – who do you listen to?

Did our grandparents worry so much about parenting?

I don’t think so. When did it all get so complicated, confusing and competitive?

I have been thinking about this a lot. Now that my kids are older, I can look back at the journey and wonder why I spent so much time fretting about everything!

I was one of those mums who read loads of parenting books and magazines. I approached motherhood like I would a university assignment. I was determined to get an A + ! Not everything went to plan though and I had to learn some hard lessons.

I had to give up my desire to be ‘the perfect mum’ and just be the ‘best mum I could be’.

Anyway, in hindsight, I have come to the conclusion that there really are only three things you need to know to be a great mum.

♥  LOVE. Always come from a place of love. Always act with love. Pretty simple, right? Actually, this applies to everything in your life.

♥  MAKE YOUR KIDS A TOP PRIORITY.  When your kid’s needs are put right at the top of the list (don’t forget your own health and wellbeing), everything works. I know as soon as I start making other things a priority (like work), the cracks appear.

♥  FOLLOW YOUR HEART. I think we are born with maternal instincts. You should always follow them. Sit quietly and think. Does this feel right for me, for us as a family? The answer will come to you. Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing or thinks about it. Just trust your instincts.

What do you think? Are these the only 3 things you need to know to be a good mum or would you add some more?

You might also like to read about reclaiming motherhood.