You’re going to become a Mother, and you can’t help but wonder how all the other parents out there manage to keep their heads above water. To cut to the chase: (They don’t!) You’ve heard horror stories about the arduous first few weeks with a Baby, and you’d love to learn how other mothers have dealt with the stress.

Setting limits (both for others and yourself) is the most important thing I did to survive the insanity of raising three children. Because folks want to come over and see the baby doesn’t mean you must play hostess. You have the right to decline. And listen, in the beginning, you shouldn’t worry about making the bed, Cleaning the kitchen, or making dinner. You can, but it will take some time for your brain and body to readjust.

Here are some “hacks” seasoned mothers have found useful for surviving the infant phase.

Give Yourself Something To Look Forward To

Put aside some of your favorite sweets, snacks, and meals for the difficult feedings that occur around midnight. Two in the morning was a lot easier to get through when I had an ice cream bar or a bag of chips.

Prep Everything Ahead Of The Birth

Prepare meals in double quantities and store one in the freezer as the due date draws near. Also, ensure you have the necessary ingredients for meals that need no cooking, such as smoothies. Employ a cleaning service to carry out a thorough cleaning just before the arrival of the baby.

Shower Power

Placing a bassinet in the bathroom will allow you to shower whenever you want.

Make Things Easy For Yourself

Create a “favorite” list of items to speed up your grocery delivery service. Expect to feel euphoric and have low expectations for what you can do. You should also stock up on a pair of feeding pillows: two, one for your bedroom and one for the living room.

RELATED: 5 Breastfeeding Hacks For New Moms

Cabbage For Sore Breasts

Many mothers swear by the curative powers of cold cabbage. It’s effective in reducing breast engorgement.

Baby Containment Everywhere Is Key

Get a baby carrier or anything similar that can be simply moved from room to room—easy access to the