My story
Perfectionism and dependability have been my hallmarks over the years.
What was so valued in my professional work drained me from the inside and burned me out.
When I became a Mom, I couldn’t manage to keep the bar suspended high in every area of my life – at work and at home. I also didn’t know at the time that things could be different, that making it easier was possible.
I needed help.
I participated in a therapy program to support my son on the autism spectrum. The therapist recommended recording a parent’s response to home challenges.
I’ll never forget watching my “performance”-my reactions, face and the words that were spoken.
I was flooded with a wave of shame and horror.
I remember that I, an oasis of calm at work, was screaming at my young children for any reason. I could not believe the words I uttered under the influence of strong emotions, while at work I was always composed and chose my words carefully.
The burden of remorse made me literally unable to get out of bed.
I found myself in a place where, seeing no other idea to save others, I had to take care of myself. Since I was having sleep problems at the time, and wanted to avoid taking medication, mindfulness training was recommended to me. Mindfulness not only helped me regulate this area relatively quickly, but began to shine a spotlight on other areas as well, thus leading me safely out of this crisis situation.
I experienced very quickly that my lack of presence in interactions with mychildren was due to my inability to be in relationship with myself. Mindfulness became like an outstretched wing for me, which began to push away from my eyes and heart the illusions, projections, perfectionism and patterns by which I had lived for more than 30 years.
In the next stage, compassion training, including self-compassion, strengthened my other wing and I finally felt like I could fly. Practicing kindness to myself helped me change the tone of my inner critic, who was increasingly becoming a harsh parental voice.
Today, I am a mother of two teenage sons and a wife in a house full of varying needs.
Mindfulness and self-compassion make it easier for me to navigate parenting and professional challenges. I know how to regain serenity and lean on myself in difficult moments. How to reframe stress and cultivate joy. I know how to take care of my loved ones and support them, because I know how to take care of myself and support myself.
I have experienced it can be easier.
Come and join me for the training – you can learn it too.
I’m an economist by education, and I work as an insurance broker by day.
My passion is helping adults who take care of children – I create EduMind Foundation, where I support schoolteachers and My Mindful Way where I work with parents to make parenting easier.
