Authentic happiness is not selfish, egotistical or narcissistic, in fact, it is essential in order for humankind to thrive.
-Lisa Cypers Kamen
As I write this, it’s been one of those days. Too much to do and simply not enough time in the day to do it all. So, I definitely do not feel like I’ve been thriving today. There has definitely not been a good flow to my day. Since I generally don’t see clients on Mondays, my Mondays often become a catch-all day for everything from doctor appointments to shopping to returns to working on my business and so forth. It’s a lot. Some Mondays are better than others. I’m still trying to come up with ways to best use this precious time and how to prioritize what’s most important in my own life.
This blog is focused on surviving and thriving, specifically during the perinatal period, one of my areas of focus in my therapy private practice. The perinatal period includes both pregnancy and postpartum.
Here’s what’s to come in this blog: what thriving in pregnancy and postpartum may include, what survival mode in pregnancy and postpartum may include, and wrapping up with what moving from surviving to thriving in pregnancy and postpartum may look like. Enjoy!
Thriving in pregnancy and postpartum may include:
- Finding fulfillment in activities you enjoy
- Feeling centered and grounded
- Being able to concentrate and stay focused
- Your life has purpose, meaning and direction
- An emotional connection to others
- Optimism and positivity
- A connection to your inner feelings
- Feeling thankful and grateful in life
- Feeling excited and energized throughout your day
- Being able to support yourself and others
What else would you add here?
Survival mode in pregnancy and postpartum may include:
- A lack of interest in things you usually enjoy
- Pessimism and negativity
- Disconnection from your inner feelings
- A lack of direction in life
- Emotional disconnection from others
- Exhaustion and not having energy
- Trouble concentrating and staying focused
- Not feeling like yourself
- Just getting through your day
- Feelings of guilt, and sometimes shame
What else would you add to this list?
Moving from surviving to thriving in pregnancy and postpartum may include:
- Self-compassion and self-love
- Self-acceptance versus perfectionism
- Asking others for help, even when this feels difficult or even scary at times
- Processing feelings- therapy is a great place to do this! Journaling is also a great place to do this!
What else helps you move from surviving to thriving in your own life?
If you’re struggling right now, know that you’re not alone. Many of us are currently in survival mode, just getting through the day. This is made even harder if you’re in the perinatal period which includes pregnancy and postpartum. If you could use more help and support, please reach out to your doctor or a therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health (look for the PMH-C credentials) in your area (if you don’t already have one). Know that I’m thinking of you and sending lots of love and compassion your way!
