The Top 10 Lessons for Surviving & Thriving in Motherhood (What I Wish Someone Would’ve Told Me Sooner)

By: Dr. Alyssa McPeak

Motherhood is humbling. It stretches you, grows you, softens you, exhausts you, and transforms you.

And even though everyone has advice—and your own mom has probably told you these things five times—some lessons you simply don’t understand until you live them. Over the years (and through the chaos of raising kids, working and managing several businesses, running a home, and still trying to be a human), these are the truths I’ve learned the hard way.

This is my personal list of the top 10 things I wish someone would’ve told me sooner—because I believe they apply to motherhood at every age and stage.

1. Ask for help—sooner than you think you need it.

Motherhood is not meant to be done alone. You are not failing when you ask for support—you are being wise. Ask before you’re exhausted. Ask before you hit your limit. Ask because it will make you a healthier, more present mom.

2. Get ready before your kids wake up.

This one changed everything for me. Even 10–15 minutes to yourself can set the tone for the whole day. When you feel grounded and ready, you can give your kids what they need without feeling rushed, flustered, or overwhelmed. It’s a gift to them—and to yourself.

3. The little things sometimes count the most.

The small moments matter. The hugs, the snuggles, the bedtime chats, the inside jokes, the car rides, the quick “I’m proud of you.” Kids don’t remember the grand gestures nearly as much as the everyday love.

4. Time is a currency—and you don’t get it back.

Spend the time, not the money. Your presence is worth more than anything you could ever buy. Slow down. Be where your feet are. These moments will become memories.

5. Your kids will remember experiences more than stuff.

They remember:

• baking cookies

• jumping in the lake

• family walks

• spontaneous ice cream runs

• board game nights

• bonfires

• Sunday pancakes

They remember how it felt to be with you—not what you bought them.

6. Do something every week (without your kids) that brings you joy.

You are allowed to have a life outside of your children. In fact—you need one. Whether it's a workout, coffee with a friend, a hobby, a class, or a solo grocery run, intentionally choose one thing every week that refuels you.

A whole family thrives when Mom is thriving.

7. Date your husband.

Your marriage is the foundation your children grow on. Protect it.Prioritize it. Nurture it. Even small date nights at home after the kids go to bed can keep your relationship strong and connected.

8. “No” is a full sentence.

You don’t have to over-explain. You don’t need permission. Saying “no” creates space for what matters most. Honor your bandwidth, your values, and your peace.

9. Trust your gut.

Your intuition is powerful. It will (usually) never lead you wrong. If something feels off—trust that. If something feels too busy, overwhelming, or draining—listen. Your peace is worth protecting, always.

10. Remember who you are & what makes you tick.

Motherhood is a beautiful part of you—but not the only part. You were someone before you were “Mom,” and that woman still matters. Keep pieces of yourself alive. Your passions. Your creativity. Your dreams. Your identity.

Your kids don’t need a mom who has lost herself—they need a mom who models what it looks like to be whole.

Motherhood Is a Journey—And You’re Doing Better Than You Think

No matter what season you're in—babies, toddlers, teens, or beyond—these lessons hold true. They are reminders to slow down, choose intention, nurture yourself, and protect what matters most.

At Roots Wholistic Health, we believe moms deserve care, support, and a place to feel seen. Because when a mom feels grounded, healthy, and connected to herself, her entire family feels it too.