How to make mama friends
Mama friends are the best.
We all need mama friends. You think you don´t? Come talk to me. I am certain that the experience of motherhood is only truly manageable when we can connect with other mothers - and feel their solidarity and support. Because motherhood is hard sometimes. Most of the time, it is a challenge in some way or another. We humans are not meant to go through hardship alone, especially women. We are wired for connection, and we need each other more than we think we do.
So, how do you make mom friends? Here are three ideas (come talk to me at Arco and I will give you another dozen):
Go talk to the mom next to you, wherever you are. There are moms everywhere, thank goodness. If you are shy, take a moment to think, “If I was feeling lonely and was alone with my kid, would I appreciate it if another mom said hi?” You would, most likely. Moms are such a forgiving audience. Strike up a conversation about anything - their stroller, their kid´s hat, or if they know a good coffee shop nearby.
Attend a mom-focused event. Whether mama-baby yoga or a workshop at Arco, join an event where you can, and talk to the moms afterwards to arrange a meetup.
Ask your friends to introduce you to other moms that you would connect with. It sounds so simple, but when did you try this last? Ask your friends - who know you and care about you - to introduce you to a mama they know. You could arrange to go for a walk with your little ones, meet at the playground, or have a coffee when the kids are napping or at school.
Not everyone you meet will become your “tribe”. We all have different energy and some connections click, others peter out. That is fine! But trust me, as a passionate community builder, especially connecting with moms, eventually you will build your core mama friendships. Keep meeting people, and keep seeking the connection with those who make you feel safe, seen and validated. Those are your mama friends, and your life will be better off with them in it.
To building your tribe!