Words are incredibly powerful. They shape not only how others perceive our stories but also how we perceive ourselves and our experiences. When it comes to pregnancy and birth, the language we use can have a profound impact on our self-esteem and confidence.
Using phrases like “I had to” can inadvertently cast us in the role of a passive victim, as if we had no control over the situation. But the truth is, in many cases, we do have choices, even when it may not seem that way at first glance.
Why Choosing Matters
- Ownership of Your Story
By choosing to replace “I had to” with “I chose to,” you reclaim ownership of your birth experience. It becomes a narrative of your decisions and the agency you exercised during a critical moment in your life.
- Empowerment
Empowerment is essential during pregnancy and birth. Feeling like an active participant, making choices that align with your values and needs, can boost your confidence and sense of self-worth. When you say, “I chose to,” you highlight your strength and agency.
- Positive Perception
Your birth story is a reflection of your journey, and it’s something you’ll likely share with others. When you use empowering language, it not only boosts your self-esteem but also leaves a positive impression on those who hear or read your story. It can inspire others to make choices that align with their needs and preferences and the world need a WHOLE lot more of that!
Choosing Your Birth Story Narrative
- Reflect on Your Experience
Take a moment to reflect on your pregnancy and birth experience. Identify moments when you felt like you had no choice or were forced into a decision. Recognize that even in those situations, a choice existed – it might not have been easy, but it was yours to make. Now re-read that again please.
- Rewrite Your Story
Go through your birth story and replace disempowering phrases with empowering ones. For example:
- Instead of “I had to have a C-section,” say “I chose to have a C-section because it was the safest option for me and my baby.”
- Instead of “They made me get an epidural,” say “I chose to get an epidural because I needed relief from the pain.”
- Share Your Empowered Story
When you share your birth story, whether with friends, family, or on social media, use your new empowering narrative. By doing so, you not only inspire others but also reinforce your sense of agency and strength.
Conclusion
Your birth story is a significant part of your life journey. It’s a story of choices, challenges, and triumphs. By choosing to use empowering language and emphasizing your agency, you can reshape how you perceive and share your story. Remember, you are the author of your narrative, and you have the power to make it a tale of strength, empowerment, and resilience. So, go ahead and choose your words wisely, because they have the power to transform your birth story into a source of inspiration and empowerment for yourself and others…and that feels SO good!
