5 Signs You’re Turning Into a Stereotypical Mom

• Refuse to gossip. It may be difficult at first if gossiping has become your primary means of communicating with others. If you preface each conversation with, "Did you hear about so and so?" it's time for a change.


• Don't fall prey to bad hair. New moms tend to go for the easy-to-manage haircut—you know, the one that requires no styling and looks absolutely blah? Being a mom does not mean you should schedule an appointment for one of these matronly dos. Instead, keep your regular appointments for haircuts and color treatments.


• Don't forget the makeup. You don't have to parade around in evening makeup—a bit of lip gloss, eyeliner, and foundation can work wonders. This is especially the case if you wore makeup before motherhood. You're sure to regain self-confidence and show off your sex appeal by just squeezing in time to powder your nose.


• Unpack the purse. You're likely toting plenty of weight each time you pick up your child. Don't let an overloaded bag put additional stress on your shoulders and back (and potentially cause injury). Cut down on the nonessentials and you'll find your load lighter—and healthier. (However, you can opt to see your purse-packing ways as a plus. If Baby throws up in the car while you're on the freeway, those burp cloths you shoved in your bag sure will come in handy, says Ashleigh Banfield, (Court TV anchor and host of Hollywood Heat.0)


• One loose clothing item per day. Masini offers this fantastic tip for women feeling self-conscious about their changed bodies due to baby weight: "Wear a tunic with some flattering and sexy trousers or jeans and a heel. Or wear loose pants with a sexy camisole." The point, according to Masini, is to avoid wearing an exclusively baggy wardrobe.


• Relax the gear. You don't need to spend oodles of dollars and have every latest parenting gadget to be a good mom—although having some gadgets is certainly OK. Banfield says, "I only need to compare myself to my husband, who absolutely must have the latest in gear ... any gear." To gadget-loving moms everywhere she says, "My one indulgence is my kid ... let me go a little gear-goofy for once!"


• Don't be afraid to be sexy. Motherhood is a life-changing experience—but that doesn't mean you have to forgo your former sexiness! Instead, gradually reintroduce regular bras and even lingerie into your wardrobe. Masini suggests buying "something new and 'grown-up' to wear under your clothes that is not baby-focused" about once a month.


• You don't have to do it all. You don't have to head your local moms group, volunteer at church, and keep a spotless house, all while being impeccably groomed, going on weekly dates with your partner, and raising perfect kids. It is impossible to do it all and retain your sanity! Let things slide once in a while—understand that motherhood has trade-offs. Put off the Saturday morning housework so you can cuddle in bed with your husband a little longer while your baby naps. Pass on the shower and instead spritz yourself with your favorite perfume so you can sneak in a pre-work walk with your little one.

What it all comes down to is how you feel about yourself. If you are happy with how you look and the life that you live—fantastic! Don't change a thing. Just remember, you don't have to follow a set stereotype to be a good mother. You have a choice as to what kind of life you live and what kind of parent you want to be.