Growing Into the Woman I Want to Become: Reflections after attending the CEO Mama Retreat

On today's episode of Redefining Motherhood, I'm excited to share with you all the insights I gained from my recent experience attending the CEO Mama Retreat. Since becoming a Mother, I've been on a journey of self-discovery. Motherhood brought so many wonderful blessings into my life, but it also shifted my identity in ways I'm still navigating. This retreat provided an opportunity for deep reflection and encouragement that has helped propel me forward in this new chapter. I'm grateful for the community of ambitious mamas who understand both the rewards and challenges of balancing career and family.

Embracing Uncertainty

For so long after becoming a mom, I put immense pressure on myself to have all the answers and constantly move forward in my business and goals. But there were seasons where I felt lost, unsure of my next steps. During those times, I'd distract myself with more work instead of facing the discomfort. However, through intimate conversations at the retreat, I realized it's not only okay but healthy to slow down during uncertain times. I gave myself permission to sit fully in the discomfort of not knowing instead of running from it. This new perspective has lifted a heavy weight from my shoulders and brought me a sense of peace. I'm learning to be patient with myself through seasons of uncertainty.

Rediscovering My Identity

Motherhood truly changed everything about how I saw myself - it was like my old identity was stripped away overnight. At the retreat, I committed to taking dedicated time this year to rediscover who I am beyond just being a mom. I want to reconnect with my passions, values, and dreams that existed before children. So far, this journey of self-reflection through journaling, spending solo time in nature, and reconnecting with old hobbies has already revealed so much. It's been empowering to remember parts of myself I thought were lost. I'm excited to continue nurturing this process of rediscovery over the coming months.

Prioritizing Self-Care

For too long, I operated under a hustle-at-all-costs mentality that was burning me out and keeping me from my best work. At the retreat, I realized I needed to make significant changes to reclaim my well-being. Now, I'm learning to say no to opportunities and commitments that aren't priorities so I can make space to truly enjoy life's small moments. I'm also being more intentional about rest, hobbies I'm passionate about, meaningful connections, physical health, and reducing stress. My well-being, happiness, and ability to show up fully as a mother are so important - and I'm worth investing in.

Letting Go of Expectations

In the past, I put unrealistic pressure on myself to achieve certain business or life goals by certain times. I thought this drove me forward but it was actually a source of unnecessary stress and guilt. At the retreat, I realized letting that go has brought me so much freedom. Now, I'm focused on truly enjoying the journey of growth, learning lessons along the way, and becoming the best version of myself through small daily improvements instead of outcomes. This shift has reduced my anxiety and helped me appreciate the present moment.

I'm so grateful for the insights and encouragement I gained from my CEO Mama sisters. This experience of slowing down, embracing uncertainty, rediscovering myself, prioritizing self-care, and letting go has truly changed my perspective. I hope you'll tune in to the full episode to hear more details about my retreat experience and journey of self-discovery. And as always, please feel free to reach out if you have any questions!