Parenthood 101: mum writes hilarious 10-step introduction to parenting

Parenting is hard. And with so much stuff out there you can wonder if you're doing anything right at all half the time. 

Don't you just wish there was some manual to tell you everything you need to know? Believe us, we would love one too. 

In lieu of a parenting bible, mum-of-four Adrian Woods recently released a list she called "The Introduction to Parenting". 

And it's pure gold, take a look: 

1. The Learning Curve 

"Parenthood delivers a learning curve you have never encountered, it ebbs and flows and morphs into a reality that you didn't know was in the realm of possibility." 

2. It's not a repeat of your own childhood. 

"Being a taker doesn't transform you into the giver you once took for granted, create your own familial sphere rather than recreating the days of your Camelot."

3. It happens in stages

"Parenthood begins with a focus on babyhood, the shortest stage of your child’s life that you shall experience."

4. It will challenge you to your very core.

"I remember thinking, quite haughtily, who would ever shake their baby? Putting a hysterical little person in his or her crib and walking away is as hard and humbling an experience as I have encountered."

5. Parenthood spawns a ferocious heart.

"If you’ve ever loved a dog or a sibling, your own child will transform you into an entity so fierce that you scare yourself."

6. It should be filled with truth and laughter. 

"Life is hard and messy and mournfully hysterical and so, each day one should laugh more than cry."

7. Don't get bogged down by its difficulties. 

"As a good friend told me in those first few weeks, as soon as you figure something out, it’s no longer an issue."

8. Parenthood is the joining of a grand tribe. 

"We must stick together, build each other up, cheer each other on, lament, love and sometimes just listen, but always look after one another in a non-judgemental way."

9. Never say never

"We’re climbing mountains blindfolded, after all. It’s amazing what real circumstances and little people can do to your whimsical philosophies."

10. Remain true to yourself

"Parenthood will naturally gobble up your time — and you — but you must remain true to yourself. 

You are so important and it’s easy to drown in the wonderful role that jump-started your heart."

We love this handy list, it truly contains some words of wisdom!