How to Survive The First Six Weeks With Your Newborn Baby

Step1
You've probably heard this one a thousand times, sleep when your baby sleeps. Sounds easy right? It is more difficult then you may think. When your baby is asleep you may find yourself just wanting to hold him or her, or you may want to catch up on a few of the hundred things you've put off. Think of your well-being first and get some rest.
Step2
Ask for and accept help. Your friends and family love you and will do anything to help especially if it involves a baby! Have someone drop off dinner, do your laundry, pick up a prescription, or even just watch the baby so you can shower. Forget the wonder woman complex and remember that you are only human, we all need a little help sometimes.
Step3
Space out your visits. For obvious reasons everyone wants to visit within the first couple of weeks after the baby's arrival which may not be beneficial for you. There is added stress of having to constantly entertain and you'll get a lot of help right off the bat but then it dwindles down to nothing a few weeks later. If you space out when you have visitors, you can reduce your stress level, get a steady flow of help, and also get that all important contact with the outside world which you will desperately need throughout the first six weeks.
Step4
Think positive. It's easy to get wrapped up in a world of worries filled with doubts about your parenting abilities , concerns of the health of your baby or you simply may feel disappointment in yourself for not being able to do as much now. Pull yourself out of that ditch by having a can do attitude. Give yourself words of encouragement, pat yourself on the back for even the smallest of things, and remember how quickly time passes. You will make it through this in no time at all!
Step5
Cherish this time with your newborn. You've probably noticed just how fast time flies and this period of your life is no exception. Enjoy every moment you spend with your baby even if he or she is crying, or your changing the diaper again.
Step6
Discuss your feelings! Open up to your partner, friends, family, and even your doctor. Create a network of people that you can turn to. You suddenly won't feel so alone, sad, or discouraged when you have someone there willing to listen and help you through your emotions.
Step7
Create or join a support group for new parents. Check with your hospital, most either offer one or can connect you to parents of newborns.
Step8
Take care of yourself. Find and do something that makes you happy. Treat yourself to a small pleasure like ice cream, find rejuvenation in alone time, do your hair or nails once a week, take a hot shower, and most importantly, eat well!
Step9
Proper nourishment during this time is essential especially if you are nursing. Drink plenty of water and eat your fruits and veggies! You'll get more energy from an avocado than potato chips.
Step10
When you feel at your lowest and you think that you'll never make it, remember that most women do this multiple times because of the joy they receive from the experience.