Volkswagen sponsored content.
Our Latin culture is so diverse that we sometimes forget it spans an entire continent. Between traditions, folklore, and idiosyncrasies, we are a beautiful tapestry of identities.
However, there are things we share across the length and breadth of our territory — the archetype of the mother, for example.
Latina moms are a force of nature; their ability to adapt, resilience, and will are matched only by their infinite love and patience.
They often say that it takes a whole village to raise a child. And they are not wrong. When we bring a little one into the world, many things change, starting with ourselves.
Learning to delegate, trust, and create a support network that does its bit is a matter of learning. As the years go by and we leave behind habits and customs that may no longer work for us, Latina moms also face new challenges and adaptation processes.
Having someone to delegate our responsibilities to allows us to achieve everything we set out to do. After all, together, we go further.
From ‘super mom’ to delegating expert
Have you tried reaching into a Latina mom’s kitchen to help out? Chances are, if you survived to tell the tale, you know that Latina moms confuse delegating with a lack of caring.
It’s as if it’s impossible to redistribute the workload.
The good news is that this is changing.
Latina moms have always had a support network. Between sisters, abuelas, tias, and friends, a team is always ready to help.
But most importantly, our mothers are realizing that saying “I can’t” is okay, that setting limits is okay, and that accepting help is not a symbol of weakness.
Accepting help without guilt
Ah, the weight of guilt!
In Latin culture, guilt is an eternal companion. But like all traditions, it’s a matter of deconstructing and laying a different foundation.
Dear Mamá, it’s okay to feel tired; it’s okay to need help, and it’s definitely okay to rebuild the idea of love through support.
And that’s because the Latina “mommy guilt” is an extreme sport. But there are ways to cope and understand that recontextualizing our family bonds makes us lead a fuller, more satisfying life with less generational trauma.
Here are some ideas to start:
- Rehearse saying phrases like “I can’t,” “I’m tired,” and “I’d rather you do it.” Remember that, from respect and honesty, there is no miscommunication.
- Unlock your speech through “this makes me feel.” Remember that frustrations are a cumulative problem.
- Get your family used to the fact that “mom is having a moment to herself.” Communicating this and making your family understand that you need a moment is the ultimate expression of caring for yourself and for everyone.