Don't Fall For The Trap

If there is one thing I have learned through parenting neurodivergent children, it is that others' opinion of you has everything to do with their opinion of themselves and little to do with you. 

If you want to support a mom who is worried about comparison and judgment, here are some ways you can help:

1. **Listen without judgment**: Let her express her feelings without feeling judged. Create a safe space where she can share her concerns openly.

2. **Offer reassurance**: Remind her of her strengths and the unique qualities that make her a wonderful mom. Reinforce positive affirmations about her parenting abilities.

3. **Encourage self-compassion**: Help her practice self-compassion by reminding her that it's okay to make mistakes and that she's doing the best she can.

4. **Provide perspective**: Help her understand that social media often presents a curated version of reality and that many other moms likely experience similar feelings of comparison and judgment.

5. **Challenge negative self-talk**: Encourage her to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about herself as a mom. Help her reframe these thoughts in a more positive and realistic light.

6. **Share your own experiences**: Share your own experiences of feeling judged or comparing yourself to others as a mom. Let her know that she's not alone in her struggles.

7. **Promote self-care**: Encourage her to prioritize self-care activities that help boost her confidence and self-esteem. This could include activities like exercise, journaling, or spending time with supportive friends.

8. **Offer practical support**: Help her with practical tasks or childcare responsibilities to alleviate some of her stress and anxiety. Sometimes, having someone lend a helping hand can make all the difference.

9. **Focus on gratitude**: Encourage her to focus on the positive aspects of her life and motherhood. Practicing gratitude can help shift her perspective away from comparison and judgment.

10. **Recommend professional support**: If her worries about comparison and judgment are significantly impacting her well-being, suggest seeking support from a therapist or counselor who can provide coping strategies and emotional support.

Remember to approach the situation with empathy and understanding, and let her know that you're there for her every step of the way. Your support can make a big difference in helping her navigate these challenging feelings.