Life’s Lessons: How Motherhood Became My Greatest Teacher

Life has a way of teaching us lessons, whether we realise it at the time or not. Every experience—both the joyful and the painful—shapes us, challenges us, and pushes us to grow. I’ve always believed that we are constantly evolving, but nothing has transformed me quite like becoming a mum.

Motherhood is often painted as this beautiful, magical experience, and while it absolutely is, it’s also raw, exhausting, and deeply humbling. It forces you to confront parts of yourself that you never knew existed. It stretches you in ways that no other life experience does. Before becoming a parent, I thought I had a good understanding of resilience, patience, and unconditional love—but I had only scratched the surface.

Learning to Let Go of Control

I have always been someone who likes to plan. I like to know what’s coming next, to have a sense of control over my life. But motherhood? That rewrites the rulebook entirely. From the moment I found out I was pregnant, I realised that life was no longer something I could neatly organise into lists and schedules. Then, when my daughter was born prematurely, I learned in the most profound way that control is an illusion.

Instead of fighting the uncertainty, I had to embrace it. I had to learn to let go, to trust in the process, and to adapt. Some of the most difficult moments of my life—watching my tiny baby fight for every breath, feeling helpless in the face of medical decisions—became the moments that taught me the most.

Resilience Isn’t Just About Strength—It’s About Vulnerability

Before motherhood, I thought resilience meant being tough, pushing through no matter what. But I’ve learned that true resilience also comes from being vulnerable, from admitting when you’re struggling, and from allowing yourself to ask for help.

There were moments when I felt like I was failing. When exhaustion, anxiety, and self-doubt crept in. When I wondered if I was enough. But it was in those moments—when I reached out, when I accepted support, when I gave myself grace—that I realised resilience isn’t about never breaking down. It’s about finding the strength to pick yourself back up.

Perspective Changes Everything

Becoming a mum has shifted the way I see the world. Suddenly, the little things that once seemed important don’t matter as much. I used to stress over perfection, over making sure everything was ‘just right.’ Now, I know that the real magic isn’t in the perfect moments—it’s in the messy, ordinary, beautifully imperfect ones.

It’s in the sleepy cuddles at 3 am. The first giggles. The tiny hand gripping mine. The moments when my child sees the world with wonder, reminding me to slow down and appreciate the simple things.

Love Redefines Itself

I thought I knew what love was. But motherhood taught me that love is limitless, boundless, and all-consuming. It’s the kind of love that changes your very being, that makes you put someone else’s needs above your own without hesitation. It’s a love that is both terrifying and beautiful because suddenly, your heart exists outside of your body, in this tiny human who depends on you for everything.

And through that love, I’ve learned the deepest lesson of all—that no matter how hard the journey gets, no matter how much I doubt myself, no matter how many mistakes I make, love is enough. I am enough.

We Never Stop Growing

Motherhood has been the greatest teacher of my life, but I know the lessons won’t stop here. Every day, I am growing, evolving, and learning. And just as I am teaching my child about the world, she is teaching me what truly matters.

So if you’re in the thick of it—feeling overwhelmed, doubting yourself, wondering if you’re getting it right—know this: you are growing in ways you can’t even see yet. Every challenge, every tear, every moment of self-doubt is shaping you into the parent, the person, you are meant to be.

And that? That is the most beautiful lesson of all.

If this resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. How has motherhood (or parenthood) changed you? Let’s keep the conversation going—leave a comment, share your journey, and don’t forget to subscribe for more reflections on parenting and personal growth.

What experiences in life helped you grow the most?

Do I Believe in Fate and Destiny? A Thousand Times Yes

Some people say life is just a series of coincidences. I don’t believe that for a second—especially when it comes to my husband. Looking back, it feels as if the universe had been nudging us toward each other for years, long before we ever officially met.

I moved to Hove in 2009, completely unaware that my future husband was already there, moving through the same spaces, sharing the same city, and even crossing my path without either of us realising. It wasn’t until December 2019 that we finally met properly, but when we started piecing together our pasts, it became clear that fate had been weaving our story long before we even knew it.

One of the most striking moments was on 17th July 2012. That summer, the UK was buzzing with excitement over the London Olympic Games, and the Olympic torch relay was passing through Brighton and Hove. Thousands of people gathered to watch history in the making. Among those thousands, we were both at the cricket ground, completely unaware of each other’s presence. In that moment, we were just two strangers in the same place, soaking in the same experience—two lives momentarily aligned, but not yet colliding.

But that wasn’t the only time. Over the years, there were so many other moments where our lives seemed to gravitate toward each other. Maybe it was walking past each other on the seafront, unknowingly standing in the same queue at a café, or sharing mutual friends without ever being introduced. It was as if time and circumstance were waiting for the perfect moment to bring us together properly.

And when we finally did meet in 2019, it just felt right. Like every missed moment, every almost-encounter, every twist and turn of life had been leading up to that exact point.

So, do I believe in fate? In destiny? A thousand percent, yes.

Because sometimes, life isn’t about chance—it’s about timing. And when the time is right, everything falls into place exactly as it’s meant to.

Call to Action

Have you ever experienced a moment where fate seemed to be at work? A chance meeting that changed everything? I’d love to hear your stories—share them in the comments! And if you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more personal reflections and parenting insights.

Do you believe in fate/destiny?

When Life Throws a Curveball: My Journey from Ship Life to Chronic Illness

There’s something about the open sea that makes you feel invincible. The salty breeze, the endless horizon, the sense of adventure—life on a cruise ship was more than just a job; it was a lifestyle, a passion, and a home. I thrived in that world, constantly moving, meeting new people, and embracing the excitement of life at sea.

And then, in the blink of an eye, everything changed.

The Unexpected Disembarkation

I had never imagined that I would be medically disembarked from the cruise ships. It wasn’t something I had prepared for, mentally or emotionally. I had always thought I would leave on my own terms, not because my body had betrayed me. But that’s exactly what happened.

Food poisoning led to a cascade of health issues—gastroenteritis, ulcerative colitis, IBS, and the triggering of coeliac disease. My body, once resilient, was now struggling with conditions that demanded constant care and management. It was a complete shift, not just in lifestyle but in identity.

Learning to Let Go

At first, I fought it. I refused to accept that my ship life was over. I kept telling myself that this was just temporary, that I would heal, that I would get back to it. But deep down, I knew the reality. Chronic illness doesn’t just disappear. It becomes part of you, a constant companion that dictates what you can and cannot do.

I wasn’t just losing a job—I was losing a way of life. The sense of freedom, the adventure, the community on board… it felt like it was being ripped away from me, and I wasn’t ready.

I also wasn’t ready to face the fact that my chronic conditions meant I couldn’t just “go home” and pick up where I left off. Home wasn’t the same anymore. My body needed stability, routine, and careful management—things that weren’t always easy to maintain in a world that never stopped moving.

Finding a New Path

When I came back, I was seriously considering going into teaching beauty and massage. It made sense—I had the skills, the passion, and I wanted to help others learn. I even made it down to the final two for a teaching position, despite not having an English GCSE or a formal teaching qualification. That moment felt like a sign, telling me that I could achieve more than I believed.

So, I listened. I enrolled in an access course, taking a leap into the unknown, and that was the start of my journey to becoming a podiatrist. Looking back, it was the best decision I could have made, even if I didn’t fully realise it at the time.

But that doesn’t mean the journey was easy.

Facing the Past After COVID

When COVID hit, the world changed again. Returning to work in nursing homes post-pandemic was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. The first time I stepped back into that environment, I had a full-blown panic attack.

It wasn’t just the stress of the job—it was a flashback. A reminder of when I had sepsis, of how close I had come to not making it. The sights, the smells, the sounds… they triggered something deep inside me. I wasn’t just battling anxiety; I was reliving trauma.

For me, saying goodbye to a chapter in my life has often come with a health crisis. This has shown me that you need to listen to your body or your body force you to stop, and change direction.

Embracing the Unexpected

As painful as these moments have been, I do feel blessed. My journey has been far from straightforward, but it has shaped me into who I am today. Each curveball, each goodbye, each struggle has led me to a place of resilience, purpose, and gratitude.

Life rarely goes the way we plan. Sometimes, it pushes us in directions we never expected, forcing us to let go of what we thought we wanted. But that doesn’t mean we lose. If anything, it means we grow.

And for that, I will always be grateful.

Call to Action

Have you ever experienced an unexpected life change that forced you to reimagine your future? How did you navigate it? Let’s start a conversation—leave a comment below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of resilience and hope.

Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to.

Understanding incontinence after childbirth: causes treatments and mental health impacts

Childbirth is one of the most transformative experiences in a woman’s life. However, the postpartum period can bring unexpected challenges, one of which is incontinence. Many new mothers experience urinary incontinence, a condition that can significantly impact their quality of life and mental health. Understanding the causes, available treatments, and the mental health effects of postpartum incontinence is crucial for women navigating this often-overlooked aspect of postpartum recovery.

What is Postpartum Incontinence?

Postpartum incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine after childbirth. It is more common than many might think, affecting about one in three new mothers, according to some studies. The condition can range from mild leaks to more severe instances where larger amounts of urine are lost involuntarily. There are two main types of incontinence that can occur postpartum:

  1. Stress Incontinence: This is the most common type, where activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising increase pressure on the bladder, causing leaks.
  2. Urge Incontinence: This type involves a sudden, intense urge to urinate, followed by an involuntary loss of urine. This can happen even when the bladder isn’t full.

Causes of Postpartum Incontinence

The primary cause of postpartum incontinence is the physical stress that pregnancy and childbirth place on a woman’s body. Several factors contribute to the development of this condition:

  • Pelvic Floor Weakening: During pregnancy, the growing baby places significant pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. Vaginal delivery, especially if prolonged or involving the use of forceps, can further weaken these muscles, leading to incontinence.
  • Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy-related hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in estrogen, can affect the elasticity and strength of the pelvic tissues.
  • Nerve Damage: Childbirth can sometimes cause nerve damage in the pelvic area, disrupting the signals that control bladder function.
  • Episiotomy or Perineal Tears: Surgical cuts or tears during delivery can damage the muscles around the urethra, contributing to stress incontinence.

Treatments for Postpartum Incontinence

The good news is that postpartum incontinence is often treatable. The severity and duration of the condition vary, but several effective treatments can help manage or even eliminate symptoms:

  1. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels): Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through regular Kegel exercises is one of the most effective ways to treat stress incontinence. These exercises involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing the muscles used to stop urination.
  2. Physical Therapy: Specialized pelvic floor physical therapy can be beneficial. Therapists can guide new mothers in exercises and techniques to strengthen pelvic muscles and improve bladder control.
  3. Lifestyle Modifications: Simple changes such as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, which can irritate the bladder, or maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate symptoms.
  4. Bladder Training: This involves scheduled voiding and gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits to train the bladder to hold urine for longer periods.
  5. Medications: In some cases, medications that control bladder spasms or increase the muscle tone of the urethra may be prescribed.
  6. Surgery: For more severe cases, especially when other treatments haven’t been effective, surgical options such as sling procedures can provide long-term relief.

The Impact of Incontinence on Mental Health

Incontinence can have a profound impact on a new mother’s mental health. The embarrassment, frustration, and anxiety associated with the condition can lead to significant emotional distress. Some common mental health effects include:

  • Anxiety and Depression: The fear of leaking urine in public or during intimate moments can lead to anxiety and, in some cases, depression. The feeling of losing control over one’s body can be overwhelming.
  • Social Isolation: Women with incontinence may avoid social situations, physical activities, or even leaving the house altogether, leading to feelings of isolation.
  • Impact on Self-Esteem: Incontinence can affect a woman’s self-image and confidence, making her feel less attractive or capable.
  • Interference with Bonding: The stress and distraction caused by incontinence can interfere with the ability to bond with the newborn, contributing to feelings of guilt or inadequacy.

It is crucial for women to know that these feelings are valid, and seeking support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends is an important step in managing both the physical and emotional aspects of incontinence.

Seeking Help and Support

If you’re experiencing postpartum incontinence, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Many women go through this, and it’s a condition that can be managed with the right care. Don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms. They can guide you to the appropriate treatments and resources, including referrals to specialists if needed.

Support groups, both online and in person, can also be a valuable resource, providing a community of women who understand what you’re going through and can offer advice and encouragement.

Conclusion

Postpartum incontinence is a common yet often under-discussed issue that affects many new mothers. Understanding its causes, exploring treatment options, and acknowledging the impact it can have on mental health are essential steps in managing this condition. By addressing incontinence openly and seeking appropriate care, women can reclaim their confidence and enjoy motherhood to the fullest.

References

  • Abrams, P., et al. (2017). Fourth International Consultation on Incontinence Recommendations of the International Scientific Committee: Evaluation and treatment of urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and fecal incontinence. Neurourology and Urodynamics, 36(5), 1201-1229.
  • Milsom, I., et al. (2013). Epidemiology of urinary (UI) and faecal (FI) incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 27(3), 363-374.
  • Robinson, D., & Cardozo, L. (2019). Urinary incontinence in pregnancy and the postpartum period. Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 54, 84-93.
  • Wesley, A., & Price, N. (2018). The Impact of Urinary Incontinence on Quality of Life in Women: The Role of Self-Esteem, Social Support, and Well-Being. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 27(21-22), 3928-3937.
  • Wilson, L., et al. (2017). Conservative management of incontinence in women. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 37(1), 18-24.

If I Could Be Anybody, I’d Be Me in Six Months

If you could be anybody, who would you be? It’s a question that makes you pause and think. Some might dream of being a famous actor, a brilliant scientist, or a powerful world leader. Others might long to step into the shoes of someone they admire, someone who seemingly has it all figured out. But after reflecting on this question, my answer is simple:

I would be me—but in six months.

Why?

Because if I look at where I’ve been and how far I’ve come, I can see just how much I’m capable of. Six months ago, I was someone still battling a scarcity mindset, someone who had spent years overcoming personal struggles and deep-seated challenges. And yet, in these last six months, I have:

• Written multiple books

• Shown up every single day to write a blog (this marks 63 days in a row!)

• Continued to advocate for parents of premature babies and neurodivergent families

• Grown in confidence, resilience, and determination

Looking back at that version of myself, I realise that growth isn’t just something that happens by chance—it’s something I create, step by step, through showing up consistently, even on the hardest days.

So, if I could be anybody, I wouldn’t wish to trade places with someone else. Instead, I’d want to fast-forward to see the person I am becoming—the version of me who has continued on this journey, who has achieved even more, and who has helped even more people along the way.

The Beauty of No Glass Ceiling

The most exciting part of this mindset shift is that it removes any sense of limitation. There is no glass ceiling, no point at which I have to stop dreaming or growing. If I can accomplish this much in six months, then what’s stopping me from achieving even more in the next?

We often underestimate what we are capable of, but when you take a moment to reflect on your progress, you realise something incredible: you are already becoming the person you once hoped to be.

Who Will You Be in Six Months?

If you ask yourself this same question—“Who would I want to be?”—consider answering in a way that reflects your growth rather than your doubts.

• What goals can you set for the next six months?

• What small, consistent actions can you take to move toward them?

• How will your future self look back and thank you for the choices you’re making today?

Because the truth is, you don’t need to be anyone else. The most exciting version of you is already in the making—you just have to keep going.

And six months from now? I can’t wait to see where I am, and I can’t wait to see where you are too.

Let’s Connect!

If this blog resonated with you, let’s keep the conversation going! Like, comment, and subscribe to follow my journey and share your own. Who do you want to be in six months? Let’s grow together.

If you could be someone else for a day, who would you be, and why?

When My Body Had Other Ideas: Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and the Loss of DIY Independence

For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved putting things together. There’s something incredibly satisfying about opening a flat-pack box, laying out all the pieces, and methodically building something from nothing. IKEA furniture, in particular, was my guilty pleasure—I relished the challenge of following the instructions, slotting pieces into place, and standing back to admire a completed project.

But then, my body had other ideas.

The Reality of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility

Living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) means my joints don’t behave the way they’re supposed to. The connective tissue that should be holding everything together is too lax, making my joints unstable and prone to partial dislocations (subluxations) or full dislocations. Over time, the cumulative damage and chronic pain have made even simple tasks—ones I once took for granted—nearly impossible.

DIY, which once felt like a small act of independence and creativity, now feels like a test of endurance and a reminder of the limits my body has placed on me. Holding a screwdriver at the wrong angle can leave my wrist unstable for days. Lifting something slightly too heavy can mean hip pain that lingers for weeks. And if I spend too long in one position, my muscles tighten in protest, making movement even harder.

The Mental Health Toll of Losing What I Loved

One of the hardest things about chronic illness is grieving the person you used to be. It’s not just about the pain or physical limitations—it’s about the identity shift that comes with it. I used to be the person who could get things done, who enjoyed problem-solving, who felt a sense of accomplishment when I’d finished a project. Now, I have to ask for help, or worse, leave things undone because my body simply won’t cooperate.

There’s a frustration that comes with knowing what you want to do but not being able to do it. It feels like being trapped in a body that no longer aligns with your ambitions. The world around me hasn’t changed—I still want to assemble furniture, hang shelves, and rearrange rooms—but my ability to interact with that world has shifted. And that shift can feel isolating.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism. Thoughts creep in: Why can’t I just push through? I should be able to do this. I used to be able to do this. But I’ve learned (and I’m still learning) that holding myself to past standards is not only unfair, it’s harmful. My body now requires a different approach, and adapting to that is not failure—it’s resilience.

Coping Strategies: Finding New Ways to Adapt

While I may not be able to tackle DIY in the same way, I’ve found ways to work with my body instead of against it:

1. Pacing and Positioning – Instead of pushing through pain, I now break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. I take frequent breaks, listen to my body, and adjust my posture to reduce strain. Sometimes that means sitting on the floor to put something together rather than standing in a way that puts pressure on my joints.

2. Asking for Help Without Guilt – This one is still a work in progress, but I’ve learned that asking for help doesn’t mean I’ve lost my independence. Whether it’s my husband or a friend, involving someone else doesn’t take away from my contribution—it allows me to still be a part of the process in a way that works for me.

3. Using Adaptive Tools – There are tools designed to reduce strain on joints, such as ergonomic screwdrivers or automatic drills that require less force. Finding ways to modify how I do things makes tasks more accessible.

4. Letting Go of Perfectionism – Some days, I simply have to accept that my body won’t let me do what I want to do. And that’s okay. I remind myself that my worth isn’t tied to productivity or physical ability—it’s in who I am beyond what I can accomplish with my hands.

Reframing What DIY Means to Me

Though I may not be able to build furniture like I used to, I still find ways to be creative. I might guide my husband through the assembly process, offering instructions while he does the heavy lifting. I might focus on the organisational aspect—deciding where things should go, planning layouts, or making spaces functional in a way that suits our needs. I still contribute, just in a different way.

I’ve also found that shifting my focus helps. Instead of dwelling on what I can’t do, I remind myself of what I can do. I can still write. I can still create. I can still be present for my family in ways that matter. And while it’s not always easy, I’m learning that my value isn’t diminished just because my body has changed.

A Message to Others Struggling with Chronic Illness

If you’re feeling the loss of what you used to be able to do, know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to grieve. It’s okay to feel frustrated. But it’s also okay to adapt and find new ways to bring joy into your life. You are more than your limitations, and your contributions—no matter how they look—are still valuable.

Have you found new ways to adapt to physical limitations? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment below and let’s support each other in this journey. And if you found this post helpful, please like and subscribe to stay connected.

References & Further Reading

• Castori, M., Morlino, S., Celletti, C., Celli, M., Morrone, A., Colombi, M., Grammatico, P., & Camerota, F. (2012). Management of pain and fatigue in the joint hypermobility syndrome (a.k.a. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, hypermobility type). American Journal of Medical Genetics Part C: Seminars in Medical Genetics, 160C(3), 190–204.

• Hakim, A. J., & Grahame, R. (2003). Joint hypermobility. Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology, 17(6), 989–1004.

• Mastoroudes, H., Downey, C., Kevelighan, H., & Grahame, R. (2014). Hypermobility syndrome and chronic pain: An update. Pain Management, 4(6), 451-463.

• Schubiner, H. (2020). Unlearn Your Pain: A 28-Day Process to Reprogram Your Brain. Mind Body Publishing.

Describe the most ambitious DIY project you’ve ever taken on.

The Power of ‘Yet’: Why Words Matter in Growth and Resilience

When we say, I can’t do this, it feels like a dead end. But when we add yet—I can’t do this yet—we shift our mindset to one of growth, resilience, and possibility.

In our household, we don’t use the word failure. Instead, we believe in learning, persistence, and knowing that hard things take time. I grew up struggling with reading, not learning until I was 13, and when I received an E in my English GCSE the first time, I felt like I had failed. But looking back, I hadn’t failed—I just hadn’t mastered it yet.

This shift in thinking changes everything, especially for neurodivergent individuals, parents, and entrepreneurs.

‘Yet’ in Parenting: Teaching Resilience to Our Children

As parents, we see our children learning every day. They might struggle with tying their shoelaces, reading a book, or riding a bike. It’s easy to say, I can’t do this, but when we encourage them with You haven’t mastered it yet, we help them build confidence and perseverance.

Ms. Rachel, a well-loved early childhood educator, often says:

“I can do hard things.”

This simple phrase reminds children that struggle is part of learning. It’s a message we can all benefit from.

‘Yet’ and Neurodivergence: Changing the Narrative

For those of us who are neurodivergent—autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or dyspraxic—traditional learning environments can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to internalize messages like I’ll never be good at this or I’m not smart enough.

But replacing those thoughts with I haven’t found what works for me yet allows us to keep moving forward. Instead of:

❌ I can’t read fast enough.

✅ I haven’t found the best reading strategy yet.

❌ I’m not good at time management.

✅ I haven’t found the right system for me yet.

Words shape the way we think, and the way we think shapes our self-worth.

The Role of ‘Yet’ in Business and Leadership

In entrepreneurship and leadership, yet is the key to innovation. Every successful leader, advocate, or creator faces setbacks. But saying, This idea hasn’t worked yet keeps us open to new solutions.

Joy Foster, the founder of TechPixies, an award-winning company that empowers women to return to work, believes in the power of yet. She champions digital confidence and lifelong learning, showing that no matter where you start, you can always improve. Her work proves that skills can be developed at any stage in life—it’s just a matter of practice and persistence.

Practical Ways to Use ‘Yet’ in Everyday Life

• Reframe your self-talk – Whenever you catch yourself saying I can’t do this, add yet and see how it changes your mindset.

• Teach your child resilience – Use phrases like You’re still learning or You can do hard things to build their confidence.

• Apply it to personal goals – If something feels out of reach, remind yourself that learning takes time.

Words are powerful. They shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. Yet is not just a word—it’s a mindset.

So the next time you feel stuck, ask yourself: What haven’t I achieved—yet?

References:

• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.

• Foster, J. (n.d.). TechPixies: Helping Women Gain Digital Confidence. Retrieved from https://techpixies.com

• Ms. Rachel (Songs for Littles). (n.d.). I Can Do Hard Things!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on parenting, neurodiversity, and resilience. Together, we grow!

If you could permanently ban a word from general usage, which one would it be? Why?

The Biggest Challenge I Will Face Over the Next Six Months

Parenthood is a journey full of love, learning, and constant adaptation. Running a business while raising a toddler—especially one who doesn’t like sleep—is a challenge in itself. But over the next six months, my biggest challenge won’t just be about time management or business growth. It will be about ensuring that Amelia always feels safe and loved, even as I dedicate myself to helping other families through my work.

Balancing Business and Motherhood

When I started this journey—writing books, running a podcast, and advocating for families of premature and neurodivergent children—I did so because I knew how isolating and overwhelming it could be. I wanted to create the support that I wish I had in the past. But as my work grows, so does my awareness of how much time it demands.

There are emails to answer, books to write, and content to create. There are collaborations and campaigns to push forward, particularly my work advocating for neonatal leave and better support for families in the NICU. These things are my passion, but at the same time, my biggest purpose is being Amelia’s mum.

She is growing, changing, and absorbing everything around her. I want her to always feel that no matter how busy life gets, she is my priority. That means being present—physically, emotionally, and mentally—even when there are deadlines looming and new opportunities calling.

The Emotional Weight of This Challenge

One of the hardest things about this challenge isn’t just the logistics of balancing work and home life—it’s the emotional weight of it. As a neurodivergent parent raising a neurodivergent child, I know how important it is to create a sense of safety, predictability, and love in our home. Amelia, like any child, deserves to grow up knowing she is cherished.

But I also know that for me to show up fully for her, I need to give myself the same care I encourage other parents to have. That means acknowledging when I’m overwhelmed, setting boundaries with work, and making sure I don’t stretch myself so thin that I lose sight of why I started this journey in the first place.

Practical Steps to Tackle This Challenge

To ensure Amelia always feels safe and loved while continuing to run my business and help other families, I will:

1. Prioritise Presence Over Perfection – I won’t always get the balance right, and that’s okay. What matters is that when I’m with Amelia, I’m fully with her—without distractions, without my mind elsewhere.

2. Set Clear Work Boundaries – There will be dedicated times for work, but equally, there will be times when work simply has to wait.

3. Involve Amelia in My Passion – As she grows, I want her to understand what I do and why I do it. If she sees me helping others, I hope it teaches her the value of empathy and kindness.

4. Take Care of Myself Too – Parenting and advocacy can be exhausting. I need to make sure I am looking after my own well-being so that I can continue being the best mum I can be.

5. Ask for Help When Needed – Whether it’s from my husband, close friends, or my community, I know I don’t have to do this alone.

The Heart of It All

At the end of the day, my business, my advocacy, and everything I do is rooted in love—for my family, for the families I help, and for the message I want to share. The biggest challenge I will face in the next six months is one I embrace wholeheartedly because it means I’m doing something that matters.

I want Amelia to grow up knowing that she is loved beyond words. I also want her to see that helping others can be part of that love too. This is not about choosing between my work and my daughter—it’s about making sure she always knows she comes first while still following the path that allows me to make a difference.

It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.

What challenges are you facing right now as a parent? Let’s support each other—comment below and share your thoughts. And if you haven’t already, don’t forget to like and subscribe to stay connected!

What is the biggest challenge you will face in the next six months?

What Would I Say to My Teenage Self?

Dear teenage me,

I know you feel like you don’t belong. Like you’re constantly on the outside looking in, wondering why everything feels so much harder for you than it does for everyone else. You don’t yet have the words to explain why the world feels too loud, why learning feels like climbing a mountain without a map, or why you always feel different—but one day, you will.

And here’s the most important thing I want you to know:

It gets better.

I know that right now, the future feels impossible. You worry that you’ll never quite fit in, that you’ll never find your people, that life will always feel like a struggle. But I promise you, it won’t.

One day, you’ll understand yourself in ways you never thought possible. The things that make you feel different now—the way your mind works, the way you process the world, the way you need to do things differently—aren’t things to be ashamed of. They are your strengths. They are the things that will help you build a life that truly makes sense for you.

You will find your tribe.

There will come a time when you’ll meet people who don’t just tolerate your quirks but celebrate them. You’ll find friends who love you for who you are, who understand when you need space, who don’t make you feel like you have to change to be accepted. And you’ll realise that the world is bigger than the small one you feel trapped in right now.

The loneliness you feel? It won’t last forever.

You will find out who you truly are.

I know right now you feel lost, trying so hard to be what you think people want you to be. But one day, you’ll stop pretending. You’ll embrace the parts of yourself you once tried to hide. You’ll learn that your neurodivergence—your dyslexia, your ADHD, your autism—is not a flaw but a part of what makes you you. And you’ll find power in that knowledge.

You’ll learn to set boundaries. You’ll learn to advocate for yourself. You’ll learn that you are not broken, you were just never given the right tools to thrive. But you will find them.

And most of all—you will be happy.

It won’t happen overnight. There will still be hard days. But there will be joy, too. Real, deep, soul-filling joy. You will love and be loved. You will laugh until your stomach hurts. You will build a life that makes sense for you.

And one day, you’ll look back and see how far you’ve come.

So hold on, okay? Keep going.

The best is yet to come.

If this post resonated with you, please like, share, and subscribe. You’re not alone, and I’d love to hear what you would say to your teenage self. Let’s keep the conversation going.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?

Making Admin Fun: How to Turn Boring Tasks into Productivity Wins

Let’s be real—admin work can be mind-numbingly boring. Whether it’s filling out spreadsheets, replying to emails, or organising invoices, it often feels like a never-ending cycle of monotony. But here’s the thing: admin is essential, especially when you’re running a business. Without it, things would descend into chaos pretty quickly.

So, if we have to do admin (which, unfortunately, we do), why not find ways to make it more bearable—dare I say, even fun? Here’s how you can shake things up and inject a bit of enjoyment into those necessary but dull tasks.

1. Set a Timer and Race Yourself

Ever heard of the Pomodoro Technique? It’s a method where you work in short bursts (usually 25 minutes), then take a break. Turn your admin into a game by seeing how much you can get done before the timer runs out. It adds a bit of urgency and makes even the most mundane tasks feel like a mini-challenge.

2. Create an Admin Playlist

Music can make anything better. Put together a playlist of upbeat songs, your favourite guilty pleasures, or even a soundtrack that makes you feel like a productivity ninja. If music with lyrics is too distracting, try instrumental tracks or lo-fi beats.

3. Turn It Into a Reward System

Motivate yourself by setting up little rewards for finishing admin tasks. It could be as simple as:

✔️ Finish updating invoices → Make a nice cup of tea

✔️ Get through 10 emails → Treat yourself to a snack

✔️ Complete a whole admin session → Take a break with a good book or a quick walk

Knowing there’s a reward at the end makes it much easier to power through.

4. Batch Tasks to Reduce the Pain

Instead of dragging out admin throughout the week, dedicate a specific time slot to tackle everything in one go. For example, “Friday morning = admin time.” This way, you don’t have it hanging over you all week, and it becomes part of your routine rather than an ongoing burden.

5. Make It a Social Event

If you have a business partner or a friend in a similar situation, why not schedule an “admin date”? Grab a coffee, jump on a Zoom call, or sit together in a co-working space while you both get things done. It makes it feel less isolating and more like a shared experience.

6. Use Automation to Your Advantage

If you find yourself doing the same tedious admin tasks over and over, look for ways to automate them. Whether it’s scheduling social media posts, setting up email templates, or using software to handle invoices, automation can drastically cut down on admin time.

7. Gamify Your Progress

Turn your admin into a game! Track your progress, challenge yourself to beat your previous record, or use apps that reward productivity (some even let you grow virtual trees or earn points towards real-life rewards). Little incentives can go a long way.

8. Shift Your Mindset: Admin = Business Growth

It’s easy to see admin as a necessary evil, but changing your perspective can make a difference. Every email sent, every invoice filed, and every report completed is helping your business run smoothly. Think of it as laying the foundation for success rather than just ticking off boring tasks.

Final Thoughts: Admin Might Be Boring, But It’s Powerful

No one loves admin (and if they do, I need to know their secret), but by adding a bit of fun, structure, and rewards, it becomes much more manageable. Rather than dreading it, find ways to make it work for you—because at the end of the day, keeping your business organised is what allows you to focus on the parts you do enjoy.

Now, over to you! What’s your favourite way to make admin less dull? Drop your best tips in the comments, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more productivity hacks and business tips!

What bores you?

Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started