How to Find Joy in Motherhood: Embrace the Little Moments

Motherhood? It’s a ride, mama. Some days, you’re soaking in sweet baby snuggles, feeling like you’ve unlocked life’s greatest gift. Other days? You’re just tryna survive the back-to-back snack requests, meltdowns over the wrong color cup, and wondering if you’ll ever drink hot coffee again.

But here’s the thing—joy isn’t just in the big milestones. It’s hiding in the tiny, everyday moments. And when you start looking for it, you’ll realize those little moments? They’re everything.

So how do you actually slow down and soak it all in, even on the wild days? Mama, let’s talk about it.

Why It’s Hard to Enjoy the Small Moments as a Mom

Motherhood is beautiful, but it’s also a whole lot. Between the non-stop “Mommy, mommy, mommy” soundtrack and the never-ending to-do list, it’s easy to feel like the days are just flying by.

What’s getting in the way of your joy?

The mental load – Your brain is running 24/7: “Did I schedule that appointment? What’s for dinner? When did I last wash my hair?” (No judgment.)
The pressure to do it all – Social media makes it seem like every mom is out here crafting, baking, and making magic daily. (They’re not.)
Mom guilt – Feeling like you should be doing more, feeling more, enjoying more.

But let me tell you this: Joy isn’t about doing more—it’s about noticing what’s already there.

5 Ways to Find Joy in the Little Moments of Motherhood

1. Pause & Take It In

Slowing down doesn’t mean stopping—it just means paying attention. Your little one tugging on your shirt? That’s a moment. The way they rest their head on you when they’re tired? That’s a moment.

💡 Try This: Pick one ordinary thing today—morning cuddles, bedtime stories, bath time—and be all in. No distractions, no rushing. Just soak it up.

2. Let Go of the “Perfect Mom” Myth

You don’t need to curate a Pinterest-worthy childhood for your kids. The real magic? It’s in the silly dance-offs, the messy baking fails, and the lazy Sunday mornings spent in pajamas.

💛 Joy Hack: Instead of thinking “I should be making the most of every moment”, switch it up to “I get to experience this moment.” That small shift? It changes everything.

3. Start a Glow Mama Gratitude Practice

Joy multiplies when you notice it. When you start looking for the little things that make you smile, you’ll realize there are so many.

🌟 Quick Gratitude Rituals:

✅ Keep a Glow Notes journal—write down one tiny, happy moment from the day.
✅ Say one thing you’re grateful for every night before bed.
✅ Snap a real-life pic (yes, even if your house is a mess).

4. Create Mini Moments of Connection

Joy doesn’t have to be big. It’s in the small, random moments where you stop and connect.

🔥 Easy Ways to Spark Joy Daily:
🎶 Blast your favorite song and have a 5-second dance party.
💬 Whisper “I love you” when they least expect it.
🙌 Lock eyes when they’re telling you a story—watch how they light up.
🎲 Say “yes” when they ask you to play (even if it’s just for 5 minutes).

5. Give Yourself Grace

Some days, joy will feel easy. Other days? It’ll feel hard. That’s okay. You don’t have to love every second to be an amazing mom. What matters is that you’re here. Showing up. Loving them. Doing your best.

✨ Remember: Even on the tough days, you are creating beautiful moments just by being you.

Final Glow-Up: Joy Is Already There—Just Let Yourself Feel It

Glow Getta, you don’t have to search for joy—it’s already happening right now. In the little hand that reaches for yours. In the giggles. In the sleepy cuddles. In the messy, real-life magic of motherhood.

So take a deep breath. Slow down when you can. And trust that even on the hard days, you are living a life filled with love, laughter, and moments that matter.

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Vanessa

Being a physical therapist means I get the physical and emotional toll that motherhood takes. Whether it’s healing after birth or just finding energy to make it through the day, I’m here to help you move better, feel stronger, and find balance—because I know the struggle is real! Glow Mama Go is all about blending my love for movement with practical wellness tips, tailored just for you.

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