Well, hello.
A lot changes when you jump from pregnancy to actual motherhood - it's a big jump, and one I can honestly say I was not prepared for. I underestimated the whole thing down to the toll on my body, learning the cues of my baby, and all the new things that come with having someone solely dependent on you. I thought once the baby got here it would just be smooth sailing. I learned quickly that smooth sailing takes some twist, turns, and detours along the way. When your baby is in your stomach they are "safe" and you don't have to check on them to make sure they are breathing and checking on every little noise they make. When they are out in the real world there are about 500+ new responsibilities, worries, and overall things you will question. I guess they don't call it the "fourth trimester" for nothing, right? I will do another post in regards to all things mom soon, so back to the underestimation of motherhood :)
The good thing about motherhood is everyday is a learning experience, so it does get easier and you will fall into flow with your new bundle of joy. Whilst learning your baby you truly relearn yourself. One thing I will say is TRUST YOURSELF - you know your baby more than you think and more than anyone else. You got this! Your new job/title as mommy is definitely hard but it is so worth it and so rewarding. Your baby is learning how to do everything for the first time, so you guys are on a learning curve together. Some days are harder than others and there will probably (most definitely) be some tears shed by yourself and baby, but you will be okay.
Every mom will have advise for you, whether you ask for it or not, and sometimes it will overwhelm you because it is all different. You can listen to the advise but that doesn't mean you have to take it. Again, you know your baby best and every baby is different. You will need resources and a "village" though. This could be family, friends (ones that are moms or not), a mom group, books, and/or all of the above. I quickly turned to books before London was even born just so I could get advise on my own terms. I am not in a mom group, but I do seek help from family and friends in all different aspects.
I am a person that loves to do everything herself, so having a baby was an eye opener. I needed help and I wasn't sure how that even worked because again I have always done everything on my own. I still have a hard time letting other people help or hold her, but one day at a time, right? I am doing better! If you take anything away from this let it be ... if people are trying to help you, let them.
There are a lot of resources out there for moms although it may not feel like it. Other moms are always open to giving advise or tips. I haven't been a mother for long, but if needed I will help any mother in anyway I can.
I will end this with - trust yourself, accept help, create a village/resources for yourself, and enjoy your baby!
Rant over :)