It can be hard to keep being you during pregnancy – not many women talk about it, but it’s one of the most common side-effects of all. A case of lost identity… suddenly, all you are is a pregnant woman. All anyone sees is a bump, people project their opinions and views at you, giving advice galore even if you don’t ask for it.
Lifestyle coaches now teach women how to put themselves first and help women remember their own identity. Just because you’re expecting doesn’t mean you have to stop being you!
Our top tips on how to keep being you during pregnancy:
Take care of yourself & your health
Obviously it’s important to be healthy during pregnancy. But not just for your baby – it’s important for you, too. Your body is going through a lot of difficult changes, so you need to make sure you’re supporting it with a balanced, nutritious diet and regular exercise. By creating healthy lifestyle habits with your own wellbeing in mind, you’ll feel better in yourself and will instil a positive attitude to self-love. Read more about exercise during pregnancy and superfoods you need in your diet.
Pinpoint what matters most to you
It’s always a good shout to take a little time to assess what matters most to you. But during pregnancy, it’s even more important. A lot of people are going to want to tell you how you should be during the next nine months (and for the foreseeable future… mother-in-laws especially!), mostly with well-meaning intent. Ultimately, you need to have a good idea what your core values are so that you’re not pulled in a million different directions. Sure, advice is great and much welcomed, but make sure you know deep down what you want to do. Check out our guide on dealing with other people's opinion when pregnant for more advice!
Do things just for you – nothing to do with baby
Sometimes it’s easy to forget what you did pre-baby. Whether it’s something small like having a full on pamper sesh with all your favourite skincare and haircare treats, or going away on a little trip somewhere you’ve always wanted to go. Find the time to do things just for yourself and focus on putting yourself first – you really do deserve it! And it will help you feel more in-tune with your inner needs.
Find clothes you actually like
Who says maternity wear has to be frumpy and boring? Plenty of high street and luxury labels now carry maternity lines, meaning it’s easier than ever to find things that are more in-keeping with your pre-baby style. Obviously comfort is key, so things might be a little stretchier than before, but there’s tons of options nowadays. There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re not dressed how you normally would, so whether it’s workwear or loungewear, dress like yourself! The Secret to Maternity Dressing.
Unconditional love for yourself
Take the time to really appreciate the amazing thing that you and your body is doing. You’re making a whole baby from scratch! By continuously acknowledging the amazing feat, you’re instantly putting yourself into the mind-set of putting yourself first. Having unconditional love for yourself from within is the perfect way to introduce a baby into the world, allowing you to build and nurture this same relationship with your baby. And it’ll remind you just how awesome you are, because you deserve a little recognition!
