Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
Halle Berry said it well: ‘You don’t every balance it completely. (Motherhood) is a constant struggle of a little time there, a little more time here, and feeling a little bit guilty all the time.’
For me, it’s about learning to thrive and be present, calm and joyful in all of life – and motherhood, not just the good bits. It’s learning to trust ourselves completely and knowing that we can handle what life throws at us. That as mothers, we are women too with other needs and desires (and that’s more than ok!). Our children benefit when we are fulfilled – and the world and society needs our voices and contributions now more than ever.
On a practical level, it’s the small things that help keep me balanced. With a young family, it’s noisy and messy! I used to do an hour of yoga every day, now it’s 15 minutes – and that’s ok. I give myself time for a quiet cup of tea and go to bed early. I have learnt what works for me and what’s realistic in this passing phase of life.
The drive: what challenges have you overcome?
My biggest challenge has actually been learning that it’s ok to prioritise me. I found it hard to ask for time and help, for so long. It took me a long time to reach a place where I felt that it wasn’t self-indulgent to invest time – and even financial resource, in myself to heal from trauma and to reconcile who I was with who I am now. That it was not just ok, but absolutely necessary for me to work on being my best self for my loved ones.
I had been taught that mothers naturally and instinctively sacrifice themselves and that it was selfish to want or have needs beyond this. It took me a long time to be brave enough to say – this isn’t working for me and it’s not ok.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
It’s no secret that it can be challenging running your own business, as often you are the marketing manager, finance manager, creative and are actually doing the important work that is the reason for it existing! It can be lonely at times too and I work a lot of evenings, but running my own business allows me to pick my kids up most days and be present for them to offload and talk about their day. I am also doing work that I am incredibly passionate about, helping amazing women be their best – and I am so grateful for that.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I am excited to be launching my group program For Postnatal Mothers – Restore and Reboot in January, which is suitable from birth to 5 years. I believe the Postnatal period extends way beyond the first 6 months – and sometimes it can be years before we have the time and stillness to draw the focus back onto ourselves.
There are so many benefits to this group setting, which I keep to a small number. Not only is it a more affordable way to access coaching support with the same powerful and transformative benefits, there is also the added bonus of connecting in with a supportive community.
You can find Sara on Instagram and Facebook or sign up here for free monthly wellbeing resources and tips. For the group program, the waitlist is opened now here where you can register for more information. Do so before November 31st to receive priority access and a special early bird price.
