Summary

In this episode of The Thriving Mompreneur, Liz Kent addresses the common experience of mothers feeling like they’ve lost their individual identity after having children. Liz emphasizes that while motherhood is a significant part of who you are, it doesn’t have to be the only part.

The discussion focuses on practical mindset shifts and strategies for mothers to reconnect with their interests, nurture other relationships, and pursue personal hopes and dreams. Liz encourages self-compassion and challenges societal expectations that often confine a mother’s identity solely to her role as a caregiver.

This episode promotes the idea that a mother who values and attends to her own needs and interests is not only happier but also models healthy behaviors and relationships for her children.

Key Takeaways

• Your identity extends beyond being “mom”: Remember you are an individual with a name, interests, and a life outside of motherhood.

• Embrace your own interests: Make time for activities you enjoy, whether alone or in a group, and don’t feel guilty for prioritizing your own needs.

• Practice self-compassion: Challenge feelings of guilt associated with taking time for yourself and recognize that it’s beneficial for both you and your children.

• Communicate openly with your family: Talk to your children about your needs and interests, modeling healthy boundaries and the importance of individual pursuits.

• Revisit and adapt personal hopes and dreams: Motherhood may alter your timeline or approach, but it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your aspirations.

• Nurture other relationships: Prioritize connections with partners and friends, as these relationships contribute to your well-being and provide positive models for your children.

• Help children become more independent: Empowering your children with life skills benefits them and alleviates some of the constant demands on you.

• Motherhood changes you, but doesn’t erase you: Your core self remains, and pursuing your interests can make you a more fulfilled and present parent.

Quotes From The Episode

• “We have to remember you are an actual person with a name and an identity outside of so-and-so’s mom.”

• “It is good for you and your kids to see you having interests outside of being a mom and to know that you value yourself enough to make some time to do something that you like to do.”

• “Becoming a mom does change you. Absolutely. But it doesn’t erase the old you.”

• “Knowing myself and knowing kind of what things fuel me and give me joy and help me to feel recharged can ultimately make me a better mom.”

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