15 Traits That Define a Good Mom

If you’re a woman, you may have asked yourself, “do I have the qualities of a good mother?” Or maybe, “what are the qualities of a good mother?”

Many women ask themselves similar questions at one time or another. Some hoping for motherhood and others who don’t.

Being a mom — well, being a parent, is truly the most important job there is.

Given the weight of that statement, it’s no wonder that knowing if you have what it takes matters so much.

Let’s get one thing out of the way. There’s no way to really prepare to be a parent. The real education comes from being in the trenches.

So, what are the traits of a good mom and do you have them? You have more than you realize.

What is a Good Mother

Who’s to say what a good mother is? It’s not limited to one thing. To varying degrees, good moms are made up of the traits and characteristics that are a natural part of who you are.

You are individuals with history, perspective and life experience that contributes to parenting. There’s not one, specific formula to being a good mom.

Think of motherhood as an evolution. You will be a different mom on day 100 than you were on day one. Those changes will continue as both you and your children grow.

You will thrive in some areas, while others offer an opportunity for growth. For example, I am far more patient now than I was in my 20s.

15 Qualities of a Good Mother

So much of who you are and what you know right now can help you be a good mom.

Think about what you have to offer. Model the behavior you want your kids to learn.

If you want them to be kind, show kindness. If you want them to be strong, display strength. You get the idea.

Read on for 15 characteristics shared by good moms that you may also possess.

Take a look, and make note about how many apply to you.

1. Patient

Good mothers are patient… or try to be. As a parent, your patience is constantly tested. From kids repeating the same mistakes and not listening, to crying all night, each day brings a new challenge. Moms breathe, take a step back and return to face the situation with a cooler head.

2. Good Listener

A good mother knows that being a good listener is important for effective communication. She knows that you can’t listen when you’re talking. Communication with your kids can be tricky. But, the willingness to listen and really hear what her kids are saying shows them how much she respects them.

3. Adaptable

Good moms are adaptable. She realizes that you can be structured, but not rigid. The ability to pivot when faced with an obstacle is something she will use often in parenting. Moms are pros at knowing how to adjust and adapt any new situation.

4. Sense of Humor

A good mom has a sense of humor. She knows that sometimes you have to laugh so you don’t cry. Kids are funny. Crazy things happen. She finds the humor in the moment and doesn’t take herself too seriously.

5. Nurturing

Good moms are comforting and nurturing. She shows caring through her words and actions. A simple meal or warm hug makes her kids feel loved. Good moms love unconditionally, with acceptance and without judgement.

6. Selfless

To be a good mom, you have to be giving and selfless. It’s no longer just about her. Her thoughts are about doing and caring for her children’s well-being.

7. Understanding

Good mothers are understanding. Through understanding comes acceptance and tolerance. She recognizes that not all things are within her control, yet do her best to help.

8. Vulnerable

Good moms know that sometimes, vulnerability is not weakness. She isn’t afraid to be vulnerable with her kids so they know she also has insecurities. Seeing how she handles her mistakes and fears helps her kids see that they are not alone in their own thoughts and feelings.

9. Empathetic

A good mom is empathetic and kind. When people hurt, she hurts. Whey they’re happy, she’s happy. She feels what others feel and tries to understand things from their perspective.

10. Resilient

Good mothers are resilient and never give up. Motherhood will test you. Although some days are difficult to navigate, she is resourceful and finds a way through the tough times.

11. Supportive & Encouraging

Good moms are supportive. She knows that life is full of challenges, but encourages you to go for your dreams. She’s always in your corner and when disappoints happen, she provides a kind word and guidance when needed.

12. Strong

A good mom is strong. She gets up and faces the day, no matter the challenges ahead. She manages to smile for her children even when the weight on her shoulders is too much to bear.

13. Forgiving

Good mothers are forgiving and don’t hold grudges. She knows that mistakes happen. She makes mistakes; her kids will make mistakes. Good moms give grace when needed and allow room to learn.

14. Present

A good mom is present. She knows what’s going on in her kid’s life and is there to help them through it. She’s there to celebrate wins and comfort losses. A good mom is there to see them through life from the front row.

15. Committed

Good mothers are committed. They take their parental responsibilities seriously. She knows that it’s important for her kids to know she is trustworthy and dependable.

So, how did you do? Do you share any of the qualities that good moms have? I know you do.

Final Thoughts: Qualities of a Good Mother

I hope by now you realize that you do have the qualities of a good mother.

There will be days when you feel like a failure. You’re not. You’re human and entitled to your thoughts and emotions.

Expect the unexpected and adapt as needed. Sometimes, you may be in need of a mindset reset. That’s fine too.

When in doubt, draw strength from the words of encouragement from other moms.

Please keep the following in mind: Parenting is not…

• A competition
• Easy
• For Everyone

And finally, there is no such thing as a perfect parent. None. Parents are people and people are flawed.

You already have the qualities you need to be a good mom. Give yourself grace and embrace motherhood with confidence. You’ve got this!

What do you think it takes to be a good mom? I’d love to hear it in the comments below.