Building Your support system as a new mom

The hardest lesson I learned when becoming a mom was that I couldn’t do it alone. As someone who always prided myself on being competent, independent, and reliable, I was shocked to realize that if I didn’t accept help taking care of my child, my family wouldn’t thrive.

In the midst of the postpartum haze of breastfeeding, interrupted sleep, and endless diaper changes, I found that I had to reevaluate my social support system, accept others as part of my parenthood tribe, and trust them in caring for my baby.

Shifting Your Mindset from Solo to Supported

In the fog of early parenthood, where exhaustion and overwhelm take over, it’s essential to shift your mindset about what it means to succeed as a mother. Success doesn’t mean doing it alone; it means recognizing when and where you need help—and being brave enough to ask for it. The pressure to be the perfect parent, especially in those early weeks and months, can create unnecessary guilt or even shame for needing assistance. But the reality is that motherhood is a communal effort, and no one can thrive in isolation.

So, how do you identify your tribe when entering this new phase of life? Sometimes, the people we lean on the most are not always who we expect. First, take a look at your existing network and the relationships that provide the most support to you. That might look like offers for childcare or help with household chores, or it may look different: someone who is always available for a phone call for you to vent about your daily stresses or the person who will help you plan birthday parties and events.

Some ideas for building your support network

1. Join Local Parenting Groups

Look for parenting groups in your community, whether through social media, local community centers, or libraries. Many neighborhoods have meet-ups for new moms, playgroups, or even classes where you can connect with other parents going through similar experiences. Joining a structured group gives you an easy way to meet like-minded people.

2. Tap Into Online Communities

If in-person meetups aren’t always feasible, online communities can be a great alternative. This can be especially helpful if you’re looking for others with similar interests, parenting philosophies, or experiences.

3. Reconnect with Old Friends

Sometimes, your mom tribe is closer than you think. Reconnect with old friends who have become parents as well. They may have undergone similar transitions and can offer the understanding and support you need. An unexpected bonus: this can also help strengthen relationships that might have faded over time.

4. Attend Classes or Workshops

Take advantage of opportunities like prenatal yoga, breastfeeding support groups, or baby-and-me fitness classes. These environments are designed for parents and can be an ideal way to meet others who are also in the early stages of parenthood. Plus, you’ll bond over shared activities that benefit you and your child.

5. Be Open and Vulnerable

Building your tribe requires stepping out of your comfort zone and being open to new friendships. Share your experiences and challenges with other moms you meet. Often, this vulnerability can be a bridge to deeper connections, as other parents are likely dealing with similar struggles. Don’t be afraid to reach out and express your need for support—you’d be surprised how many others are looking for the same thing.

You can do this, and at MyTribe, we are here to help you find your motherhood home.