Becoming a new mum can be a stressful experience for even the most patient woman.
Surviving on little sleep and with little time for themselves, many find they are unfulfilled and unhappy.
But now researchers have revealed a ten-point action plan to help young mums out of the doldrums.
Suggestions include saying hello to a stranger, turning off the television and spoiling themselves with a treat every day.
By following the steps, mothers should be able to lead a fulfilling and contented life.
The research was carried out by Netmums, an online support group who asked 1,000 new mothers to follow the principles.
After just 28 days, mothers had reported significantly higher 'happiness levels'.
Netmums co-founder Sally Russell said: "Research has shown that mothers are at their least happiest stage in the first few years of bringing up children becasue they are so stressed and overworked.
"Social isolation is one of the main reasons for this."
"These steps are about mothers taking a little bit of time to make themselves happy."
How you can put a smile on your face
1. Count your blessings. List ten things you like about yourself in a 'happiness diary'.
2. Have a laugh every day. Laughter comes easily to children, so try to get them giggling.
3. Do a good turn. Let someone have your parking space - or offer your partner a massage.
4. Treat yourself everyday. Home pedicure, glass of wine or some chocolate.
5. Halve your TV viewing. Instead, complete a task that you keep putting off.
6. Say hello to a stranger. And smile as you do so.
7. Look after something you've planted. Smell the soil as you plant seeds.
8. Get physical. Do 100 skips and try to remember childhood rhymes.
9. Phone or talk to a friend. Think of four things you really want to ask them.
10. Talk time. Try to book an hour of quality time with your partner every week.
(Agencies)