DECIDE to be your own Birth Leader

I recently read a post by Deepak Chopra on the subject of how to be a good leader and I decided that it was perfect advice in how to manifest the birth you want!

Step One - Assess the risk to reward ratio & gather evidence.
This is the stage where you find out as much about the birth you want as you can.  Assess if there are risks and also what are the rewards.  Determine if the rewards outweigh the risks and gather as much evidence as you can to support your decision.  You may need this to argue your case with your health professional.  For example if you are someone who wants to have a VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean) you would be well served to find out all the facts about uterine rupture as research that I have conducted shows that the risk is far less than many health professionals will tell you.  The more knowledge you have the more power you have!  You will have far more success in having your decision supported.

Step Two -  Judge the opposition and gather a team that supports your values and goals
It is important to understand the opposition that you may meet in your quest and have answers at the ready. Be prepared to shop around if you cannot get the support you need.  Start gathering a team that will support your goal.  There are many professionals that will support goals like natural unmedicated birth, VBAC, Vaginal Breech Birth etc.  Also educate the people closest to you such as your partner, mother, friends and other children.

Step Three -  Think outside the box to avoid rigid, fear based thinking.  Learn to trust the wisdom of your instincts.
Currently birth is surrounded by conservative, fear based thinking.  If you desire a more natural birth, it is necessary to think outside the square, be creative and trust the wisdom that your body has innately.  Female bodies know how to birth, this is the great gift of your own internal wisdom.  TRUST, TRUST, TRUST!

Step Four - Generate enthusiasm, loyalty and esprit de corps among your followers.
Your belief, trust and enthusiasm will spread to your supporters.  You may even find that it spreads to others and inspires others to follow in your footsteps.  Your positive energy will create positive energy around you.  I have read many inspiring birth stories where the positive energy and strength of conviction of the birthing mama has influenced and enlightened the birth professionals working with her.  In some cases it has changed the way they practice forever!

Thankyou Deepak Chopra for these wise words, which fit so perfectly to the Birth Process