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Navigating motherhood while chasing your own goals

If you’re a mum who’s ever felt torn between spending more time with your little one and chasing your dreams, you’re not alone. That lingering, ever-present feeling that you’re not doing enough, being enough, or giving enough is something many of us struggle with daily. Whether you're juggling work, study, wellness goals, or building a business, navigating motherhood while chasing your own goals can feel like you’re caught in an emotional loop, always reaching for balance but forever chasing time.

You know the moments: You leave your child in the morning, and their little arms reach out for one more cuddle. Or you're mid-workout and they say, "Mama, play with me". Or maybe it's late at night, and you’re working on your side hustle while they sleep, and you wonder if you've soaked up enough of the moments that matter today.


The guilt can make you question whether striving for your own goals means you’re falling short as a mum. But here’s the truth: you can love your babies wholeheartedly and still want more for yourself. Wanting personal growth, a fulfilling career, or even just some solo time to recharge doesn’t make you selfish. It makes you human.

Instead of viewing your goals as a competing priority to parenting, try seeing them as an extension of it. By working towards something you're passionate about, you're showing your kids what it means to have ambition, drive, and resilience. You’re modelling a mindset that gives them permission to dream big and live fully.


Think about this: if your child came to you one day with a big dream, would you tell them to forget it because they might be too busy for their future kids? Of course not. You’d cheer them on. So why not extend that same grace and encouragement to yourself?


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Practical Ways to Balance It All Balancing parenting and personal goals isn’t about perfection, it’s about choosing yourself, too. Here are a few ways I’ve learned to soften the guilt and lean into balance: 1. Create Micro-Moments of Focus

You don’t need long stretches of time to make progress. 20 focused minutes while your toddler naps or plays can be enough to feel like you're working towards your goals. Be realistic and set achievable expectations for yourself.

2. Schedule Guilt-free Time for Yourself

Block out time for your passions or goals just like you would a doctor’s appointment or work meetings. This time matters too and it's only possible if you make it a priority.

3. Communicate Your Needs

Talk to your partner, family, or support network. Let them know what you’re working towards and ask for help when you need it. You don’t have to carry everything alone.


4. Celebrate Small Wins

Progress is progress. Whether it’s finishing a workout, writing a blog post, or just having a clear thought amidst the chaos—celebrate it!


5. Be Kind to Yourself

Your children don’t need a perfect mum. They need a happy, present, and fulfilled one. Some days you’ll crush your to-do list. Other days you’ll just keep everyone alive. Both are victories.


If you’re reading this while folding laundry, reheating your coffee for the third time, or sneaking in five minutes before bedtime, I see you. I am you. I want you to know that you’re doing an amazing job.


Balancing motherhood with personal goals isn’t about getting it right all the time. It’s about showing up, imperfectly, intentionally, and with so much love. So keep going, mama. Your dreams matter. And your children are watching you chase them.



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I’m Ashleigh, a creative designer, planner and stylist who has just embarked on the journey of motherhood.

 

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