Encouragement Ideas

What moms want to hear

How do we survive motherhood? Two ways: our friends and a good sense of humor.

We asked our mom friends for advice on what to write in cards. What have they said to friends in moments of chaos? What have friends said to them that turned their whole day around?

Here's what we got. Let it inspire you to say something nice to one of your friends—or pretend it's written for you, because it's probably true.

What real moms say they love to hear...

• I like hearing that I'm doing a really good job. Whenever a friend says I'm a wonderful mommy, it really means a lot.
• It's nice when someone recognizes all the little things I do that usually only get noticed when they're not done. My husband thought we were losing bibs because he couldn't find one—I had to remind him that I've been out of town and hadn't had time to wash them. My mom friends understand that all those little things don't do themselves.
• I've really appreciated it when someone just says, "Relax. You're doing great." Hearing that everything's going to be OK—even though it should be obvious—is a huge help.
• Remind me that even if it doesn't seem like it now, someday I will look back on this and laugh. Totally true in so many instances.
• I rely on my mom friends to answer all my questions. I should tell them I'm so glad they've already been there and done that...and that they're willing to share what they've learned with me.
• It made me feel good when my older sister told me she admires the way my kids stick up for each other, and that our family seems to truly enjoy being around each other.
• Someone once told me I remind her of the mom on That 70s Show because nothing seems to faze me. Totally FALSE. Everything freaks me out. But it was nice to hear.

Short notes you can steal

• Trust your instincts. You're usually right.
• You give me hope that I can be a mom and be cool.
• Your closeness to your kids says great things about the mom you are.
• Relax, your kids will be fine.
• Everyone's fed and clothed, right? And you're wearing pants? That's enough for today.
• If you're happy, then everyone else will be happy.
• What do you remember from before you were five? See? They won't remember this.
• You've raised good, kind kids. That's a great gift to the world.
• Never underestimate the power of a glass of wine. BEFORE the kids are in bed.