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Raw and Real: One Mom’s Story of Triumph and Struggle
Emily Allen
September 12, 2024
Hello, there!
Welcome to another edition of our newsletter! Whether you're hustling through your workday, enjoying a moment of quiet in retirement, or juggling life's many demands, we see you.
Today, our focus shifts slightly from the usual. Inspired by Anne Helen's thought-provoking article on motherhood and determination, we'll dive into how each of us can embrace new beginnings, no matter where you are in life.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
"It is never too late to be what you might have been."
SPOTLIGHT
Motherhood is a battleground: it's time to redefine what it means to be a 'good mom.'
Last week, while scrolling through the internet, we stumbled upon something truly captivating. A raw, heartfelt narrative by Anne Helen Petersen that goes deep into one woman's mission to redefine motherhood.
Breaking the Motherhood Mold
When you think of motherhood, what comes to mind?
Sleepless nights, diaper changes, and a whole lot of love?
Sure, but for Anne Helen Petersen, it was also a battleground. The battleground featured not just baby-induced sleep deprivation, but societal expectations and personal discovery.
Before becoming a mom, Anne decided she would do things differently.
She wasn’t going to fall into the trap of being the “perfect” mom.
No Pinterest-perfect nursery.
No endless Pinterest boards.
Just raw, authentic, human connection.
The Battle Begins: Reality vs. Expectations
Anne’s journey into motherhood wasn’t without its challenges.
From the get-go, she was up against a barrage of well-meaning advice and unsolicited opinions.
The world seemed to scream: "Do more! Be more! Sacrifice more!"
But Anne had other plans.
She was determined to carve out a piece of herself amid the chaos.
To hold onto her identity, passions, and career.
The Emotional Roller Coaster
The emotional stakes were high.
There were days when Anne felt like she was winning.
And days when she felt like she was barely hanging on.
She openly talks about the guilt, the anxiety, and the moments of sheer exhaustion that come with trying to be everything at once.
Anne’s honesty is a breath of fresh air.
It’s a reminder that it's okay to struggle, and it's okay to admit it.
Redefining Success
For Anne, success wasn't about meeting some societal standard.
It was about creating a life where she could be both a dedicated mother and a fulfilled individual.
Balancing work, passion projects, and family life isn’t easy.
But Anne’s story is proof that it’s possible.
She’s redefining what it means to be a “successful” mom.
Not by doing everything perfectly, but by doing things her way.
A Lesson for Us All
Anne Helen Petersen’s journey is a powerful reminder.
A reminder that parenthood doesn’t have to mean losing yourself.
That it’s okay to push back against the pressures to be perfect.
That authenticity and self-love are just as important as the love you give your child.
So here’s to the parents out there fighting their own battles.
You’re not alone.
And you’re doing amazing.
Final Thoughts
Anne’s story resonates because it’s real.
It’s messy.
And it’s full of heart.
It’s a reminder that parenthood, like any other part of life, comes with highs and lows.
But with determination and a little bit of grace, you can navigate it on your own terms.
Bravo, Anne.
Keep pushing boundaries.
Keep sharing your truth.
We’re all better for it.
STARTING OVER TOOLKIT
Ready to press the refresh button without losing your mind? Grab the Starting Over Toolkit. It’s your no-nonsense guide to gaining clarity on what you want in this season of your life and how to actually make it happen. Think of it as a GPS for your goals - minus the traffic jams.
POLL
If you could start over, would you choose the same career or try something completely different? |
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FINAL THOUGHTS
Life is a journey filled with unexpected turns. Sometimes those turns lead us to places we never imagined, opening doors to fresh perspectives and new opportunities.
It's okay to feel uneasy about change. It's okay to feel lost.
Embrace your journey. You have the permission to start over. Always.
Start Over Kitty & The Permission to Start Over Team
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