How We Grow explores how we actually change, and grow. Pour yourself a cup of something warm and join me for wisdom, instruction and comfort too.
There’s a book coming out this month that I’ve been impatiently waiting for. I pre-ordered it months ago, for myself and friends, because it examines a crucial part of my life that hasn’t been addressed until now. Despite the fact that 83% of millennials anticipate taking a career break for caregiving, there’s never been a book about women, leadership or self-development that includes this part of our lives.
Neha Ruch’s The Power Pause (out this month!) changes that. Neha’s book is on a mission to change our culture’s idea of what it means to be a stay-at-home mom. It’s a guide for any woman in, or thinking about, this powerful era of her life. I’m so excited to read it!
I’ve been following Neha for years. The community she created gave me confidence, language and reframing when I couldn’t find myself in any of society’s definitions of what it meant to shift a career for motherhood. I’m really grateful for her, and the movement she’s building alongside a modern, dynamic generation of caregivers.
Two of my favorite things I’ve learned from Neha over the years:
How to answer “So, what do you do?” when you’re taking care of kids full-time:
“Right now I get to spend more time with my kids. We’ll see what comes next.”
The idea that being a full-time parent isn’t a privilege. Many take on the role because they don’t have another choice. The privilege is actually getting to make the choice for yourself and your family.
I believe so much in the necessity of this cultural shift, and am thrilled to bring you my conversation with Neha:
Olivia: I don't know anyone who isn't impacted by the overwhelming amount of judgement directed towards mothers. I believe that judgement is always rooted in a wound. What's our societal wound when it comes to motherhood?