Dare to do what's right for you: Pregnancy Edition.

Pregnancy is an amazing and transformative experience. And with so many physical and emotional changes, you would think that societal expectations would leave you be for 9 months, right…? Unfortunately, like everything else, everyone has preconceived assumptions of what pregnancy should look like. Subsequently, going against the norm and doing what's right for you can feel daring and scary. Even when it shouldn’t. At Najell our mission is to help you break these norms and forge your own pregnancy path. So we have listed some common expectations you should dare to go against, if you choose.

Dare to say no

Calling fellow people pleasers! Many of us have been raised with the golden rule of always be kind to others. While that principle isn’t necessarily wrong, it should never come at the cost of your own well-being. Ever heard of the phrase ‘you shouldn’t have to set yourself on fire to keep other people warm’? If you struggle to say no or set boundaries, this could be your go to mantra for pregnancy and beyond.

Whether it's someone wanting to touch your bump, insisting you to have an elaborate baby shower, or just pushing you to meet for a coffee despite your swollen ankles. Dare to say no to the things you don’t want to do. Remember, you're not being impolite; you're prioritising your needs.

Dare to invest in yourself

Baby’s come with baby products, and usually lots of them. So it’s common to feel guilty allocating any of the budget to yourself. However, investing in you can help you have a more positive pregnancy experience.

Struggling to sleep? A pregnancy pillow can help you get a comfortable position. Noticing changes in your skin? An updated skin care routine can treat the issue and boost your confidence. Clothes becoming uncomfortable? Swap to stylish maternity wear that is designed for your changing body. Whether it's a big investment or a small treat, you shouldn’t feel guilty making sure you are also taken care of during pregnancy.

Dare to take a seat

Are you someone who finds it hard to sit down and relax? Every time you try you get this nagging feeling that you are being lazy or unproductive. When in reality you know that now more than ever you need rest. As, on top of everything else, you are growing a small human. The pressure on pregnant women to prove that they can do everything they did before they were pregnant is real. Work, exercise, socialising, appearance, hobbies etc etc.

Yet, the reality is, there are only so many hours in a day. And if you have the desire and ability to continue as you were, then all power to you. Nevertheless, it's equally valid to grant yourself time to sit down and recharge. Whether it's an hour, a day, a week, or even a month you have every right to take a seat and relax.

Dare to do things your way

Every pregnancy is unique, but one universal truth remains; everyone will always have an opinion. The expectations surrounding pregnancy are ever-evolving, yet oddly strict. Meaning many of us feel locked into a set plan. Only to find that, even when we do everything expected of us, there's always someone ready to offer unsolicited commentary.

Don’t announce the pregnancy too early, but don’t announce it too late. Celebrate every milestone, but stop having extravagant parties. Stay active during pregnancy, but it's dangerous if you do. No matter what there will always be someone with an unwarranted counterargument. So the only thing you can do is dare to do things your way. Opinions are, after all, optional - your peace is not.

Dare to ask for help

For many of us this feels like the biggest dare of all. While pregnancy is an incredible experience, it comes with its share of highs and lows. In a world dominated by social media, we're constantly exposed to the highlight reel of other parents' experiences. Making it hard for many to openly discuss the bad parts.

Pregnancy is a time of change. Hormones, your body, social circles, relationships, work life and routines can all see a shift. Navigating these changes and pressures can be overwhelming. But know you are never alone in feeling this way. And if that is the case, the best thing you can do for you and your baby is ask for help. Whether that’s from your partner, family, friends or a medical professional, it's absolutely okay to seek help and support during this transformative time.

We hope this article has helped you realise that the only person who decides what your pregnancy looks like, is you. And the next time someone tries to steer you in a different direction, you feel confident in your decision to simply ignore it. Do what’s right for you - we dare you.

Basket

Added to the basket