Take it easy, experts suggest young mothers

New Delhi, March 22 (IANS) Shahid Kapoor's wife Mira's "puppy" comment regarding motherhood courted controversy. But it doesn't take away from the fact that young mothers are always in a dilemma over how to manage work-life balance. Experts suggest they shouldn't worry much.

Mira earlier this month at an event said she is fine with being a stay-at-home mother for daughter Misha.

"I wouldn't want to spend one hour a day with my child and rush off to work... Why did I have her? She is not a puppy; I want to be there for her as a mother," Mira had said, sparking a debate about how women can tackle the pressures of being a new mother while enjoying the phase.

Clinical psychologist and expert advisor to Baby Dove, Varkha Chulani and Mumbai-based consulting psychologist and psychotherapist Rita Khear have shared tips:

• Trust your way: Being a new mother, you receive well-meaning advice from everyone in your social circle. Keep your cool and do not get overwhelmed with all the advice coming your way. Trust your instincts for you know what is best for your child.

  The 'Real Mothers Heard' survey conducted by Baby Dove revealed that 70 per cent Indian mothers are overwhelmed by the amount of information and advice on parenting, leading them to question the choices they make. Therefore, it's vital that a mother trusts her instincts, and has confidence in the decisions that she makes.

• Returning to work: A dilemma faced by lots of new mothers who have taken a break to tend to their baby -- to return to work or not. The survey also revealed that 67 per cent Indian mothers feel guilty about going to work rather than being a stay-at-home mother. Getting back to work is a big decision that every mother must take on her own, depending on the home situation and the help that you have. Once you are confident that you can balance motherhood responsibilities with work, take the plunge and join the workforce.

• Self management: Mothers should learn the art of self-management as well as time management. So, since parenting is a new ball game, you will feel some amount of discomfort because of the change in routine. Mothers need to be patient, adjust and learn to adapt to the new demands that this phase will bring. As a parent, your life has changed forever. It is best to accept that truth and make peace with it.

• Relax, it will be all fine: Take a deep breath and relax! Diaper changes, feeding and burping and sleepless nights are all a part of the package and take a toll on you. But, these days will pass by soon. So, take each day as it comes and try to get all the help and support from family as you adapt to your new responsibilities. And before you even realise, you would have mastered the art of diaper changes, putting your baby to bed and potty training.