All photos courtesy of respective moms unless otherwise noted.
 

Click here for more A1 tips from these real NJ moms.

Keep It Real

“You’re not perfect and your children don’t pee rainbows. Not everyone likes you and they may not like your kid. Accept this and take the time to enjoy motherhood. Don’t let the responsibilities of motherhood make you miss out on the joys. Keep your identity and accept [that] it had to reshape itself once you brought that beautiful life into your world. Stop comparing what you do versus another mom, and tell your kid to be an individual.”
-Donnella

Stay Positive

“There’s no secret, no magic potion, no sanity breaks. Surround yourself with people who are supportive. Get rid of negativity and remember to stop and appreciate the things you have. When life is tough, don’t give up, but take a break and recharge.”
-Sheryl

Photo courtesy of Little Nest Portraits
 

Tell It Like It Is

“I stay brutally honest with myself and own my feelings, my faults and my triumphs. There are days I feel like imploding. And there are days I feel like a superhero. Then once in a while I feel like myself again. I acknowledge that there are good days and bad, but I’m most comfortable somewhere in between. It’s okay to be human, after all.”
-Ysolt

Be Present

“Create memory-makers! I can’t be there for school drop-offs or pickups or many of the playdates, but I work hard to be there in big ways that make an impression. I take a day off to go on a field trip, volunteer to throw a St. Patrick’s Day party or be a mystery reader at school, and when I’m present, I’m 100 percent present.”
-Meaghan

Seize the Day

“I spend time with each child even if it’s 15 minutes in the morning while we’re getting ready to go out the door. We openly communicate about school, friends and all their concerns. Having those few minutes while I do their hair gives me the opportunity to talk and set the tone for their day. I make it my personal goal that we go through the day in good spirits and not angry or upset.”
-Simone