The Empowered Mom: Finding Calm, Connection, and Confidence in Your Parenting Journey
“The shift is to focus on the relationship. And what does that mean? How am I relating to my kids? How am I reacting or responding to them? Asking ourselves the question, “How are my kids experiencing me?”
- Diane Sorensen
The Empowered Mom: Finding Calm, Connection, and Confidence in Your Parenting Journey
Ever feel like you're caught in a whirlwind of tasks, emotions, and expectations as a mom? You're not alone. Many of us find ourselves reacting to situations rather than responding thoughtfully, longing for more peace and connection with our children. But what if I told you that transformation is possible? What if you could break free from old patterns and step into a more empowered and joyful parenting experience?
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Diane Sorensen, a transformational coach specializing in parenting and relationships, on my podcast, The Rise 2 Shine Podcast. Diane's insights, drawn from her extensive experience in early childhood education, behavioral science, and hypnotherapy, offer a roadmap for moms seeking to navigate the complexities of parenting with greater ease and confidence.
The Power of Self-Regulation
One of the most profound shifts in my own journey, and one that Diane emphasizes, is the importance of self-regulation. As moms, we often pour so much energy into managing our children's emotions that we neglect our own. Learning to regulate our own internal states is a cornerstone of effective parenting.
Diane shared a powerful example from her teaching experience. By focusing on her own emotional regulation in the classroom, she created a palpable shift in the environment. Children learned to navigate conflict and big emotions, not by suppressing them, but by learning to work through them. This approach empowered both the children and Diane, fostering a sense of calm and connection.
Breaking Free from Reactive Patterns
How often do we react in the heat of the moment, only to later regret our words or actions? It's a common pattern, often rooted in our own upbringing and societal expectations. But it's a pattern we can break.
Diane introduced a simple yet transformative tool: the "STOP" method. This acronym serves as a guide for pausing, taking a breath, observing, and proceeding with a mindful response. It's a practice that allows us to step out of reactive mode and into a place of greater intention and awareness.
Navigating Differing Parenting Styles
Parenting with a partner can bring its own set of challenges, especially when you have different approaches. My own experience taught me that open communication and a willingness to understand each other's perspectives are key.
Diane offered invaluable advice on having these conversations with compassion and curiosity. It's not about being right or wrong, but about creating a space where both parents feel heard and respected. Solutions evolve over time, and through ongoing dialogue, you can build a stronger partnership and a more unified approach to raising your children.
Embracing the Journey of Growth
One of the most comforting truths Diane shared is that we're all on a journey of growth. We don't have to be perfect. We can learn from our experiences and evolve our parenting style as we gain new insights. Just like we upgrade our appliances, we can upgrade our parenting toolkit.
This perspective frees us from the burden of shame and allows us to embrace the process of learning and growing alongside our children. It's a journey filled with challenges and rewards, and it's one we don't have to walk alone.
You Are Not Alone
If you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure of your path as a mom, remember that you're not alone. There's a growing community of women who are seeking to parent with greater awareness, connection, and joy.
I encourage you to explore the resources available to you, whether it's seeking support from a coach, joining a parenting community, or simply having open conversations with other moms. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, empowering ourselves and our children to thrive.
Take the First Step
Are you ready to embark on your own journey of transformation? Start today by committing to a small act of self-care, practicing the "STOP" method, or initiating an open conversation with your partner. The path to empowered parenting is within your reach.
Ready to shine brighter than ever before?
How I can support you:
🎧 Tune in to The Rise2Shine Podcast
🛍️ Visit my Amazon Storefront with All My Faves
Remember, you are not alone. Together, let's rewrite the narrative and redefine what it means to live a joyful, fulfilling life.
Your next chapter is waiting, and it's going to be amazing!
XOXO,
Noelle Kustas
