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Sunday, November 24, 2024

Anchor of Hope Counseling Support Group

Sunday, November 24, 2024 @ 8:58 PM

The Anchor of Hope Counseling Support Group offers a sanctuary for individuals coping with depression, providing a compassionate and nurturing environment for shared healing and personal growth. We are committed to fostering resilience, understanding, and wellness through community support, educational workshops, and evidence-based practices. We aim to empower each member with the tools and confidence needed for managing their mental health, promoting a journey of recovery anchored in hope and solidarity.

This 12-week program begins Dec 9 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The cost is $35 per session or $420 for the full program. Financing is available. To register, call 443-860-6870 or email elishaslee@counselingmail.com.

Friday, November 15, 2024

Home For The Holidays

Friday, November 15, 2024 @ 5:58 PM

The holiday season is supposed to be full of food, festivities, friends and family. But all too often holidays aren't what we hope they would be. As a family therapist Eva Imber-Black has noted “Families’ greatest strength and their most painful vulnerabilities are in the air at holiday time. Things that happen during the holidays will all become an indelible part of family history.

Family rituals. Family rituals such as coming home for the holiday define family life. They are patterned ways of relating to one another. Rituals focus interactions and clarify both individual differences and emotional connections among family members and friends.

When they work rituals provide family members with a sensible longing that reinforces family connections, values, and ethnic traditions. When they go bad, family members may feel isolated, lonely, and depressed as though they were in the midst of strangers. (King Solomon indicates that we must have heart-to heart relationships with family that are based on boundaries and sincerity - Prov 27:10b) Rituals that bring families closer are:

Flexible. Traditions must be flexible enough to allow members to respond to family changes and to allow some spontaneity.
Voluntary. When practiced out of duty alone, a tradition can become a meaningless obligation rather than a joy.
Balanced. Rituals should reflect all the needs of all family members and not just the interests of a few. For instance, when children grow up and marry, they have two homes to visit for the holidays not just one.
Honest. Families may try to avoid painful memories like the death of a loved one by adopting a business-as-usual attitude to holidays, but holiday gatherings can be a special time for family members to come together and deal openly with feelings.
Enduring. death divorce or natural disasters can disrupt family to distance. Although it may seem easier to let rituals falter and die, they can provide real sustenance and become even more meaningful during trying times.

When rituals are both rooted in the past and adopted to present needs, they can provide families with an ongoing sense of continuity and change. Remember that John Gray said that tradition is the living faith of people who have passed on and traditionalism is the dead faith of people that are still living.
Family changes: Families like the individuals in them grow and change families gain members by birth or marriage, lose them through death, divorce, or distance. Family members’ priorities may change as they mature and develop identities apart from the family. The impact of change on families is usually most evident during the holidays.

When faced with change families must find a new map for plotting holiday get togethers. The simplicity of childhood holidays gives way to new considerations, who to include, whose house for celebrations, etc. The strain of trying to please everyone can override the joy and deeper meaning of the holiday. No matter when the changes occur, the way they're handled at this time of year may affect the family ever after. For that reason, most therapists advise caution initiating change on special occasions.

Chances are your family isn't perfect. If you accept this and alter expectations accordingly, you may find there's still no place like home for the holidays.
Holiday Conflicts - at holiday times tensions can run high. Although fighting is a normal part of family life it's more common in holidays because...
Issues abound. One topic conversation leads to another and unsolved issues surface.
Attacks turn personal. Discussions too easily become heated attacks on personalities.
Stereotyping occurs. Problems are exasperated by black and white thinking or either or thinking.
Others joined the fray. Disputes spread as family members take sides.
Try to contain family tensions so they don’t ruin your holidays families need this time to enjoy special events together. Remember, family relationships are more important than petty arguments. Accept your differences and keep your sense of good cheer.
Happy family holidays:
Be tolerant. Extra doses of patience, acceptance and humor during this time of forced togetherness is the key to enjoyable family holidays.
Adjust your expectations. What the urge to idealize the holidays. With modest realistic expectations you're more likely to enjoy yourself and your family.
Keep holiday rituals flexible. Draw a distinction between the holidays as institutions and what they mean to you and your family. Examine family traditions each year; Dispensed with those parts of your celebrations that don't work and preserve what means the most. Create new rituals that reflect family changes.
Make plans. Don't leave holiday celebrations to chance. Let loved ones know what your plans, intentions and expectations are.
Take care of yourself. Traveling disturbs normal routines. Eating and exercise regularly and try to get some time alone.
Don't regress! Returning to your childhood home often reactivates childhood feelings and fears. It’s important to maintain your boundaries – physical, emotional, and intellectual you may even want to consider staying in a hotel rather than your childhood bed.

Thursday, November 14, 2024

Navigating Life's Crossroads: The Impact of Trauma on Decision-Making

Thursday, November 14, 2024 @ 3:46 PM

In the journey of life, each of us reaches intersections that command pivotal decisions—choices that shape our future trajectory. For those who have experienced trauma, these crossroads can be fraught with additional layers of complexity and emotion. From a Christian perspective, understanding the influence of trauma on major life decisions is not just about self-awareness; it’s about recognizing the sovereignty of God in our healing and the decisions we face.

The Shadow of Trauma on Decision-Making

Trauma, by its nature, leaves a mark on our psyche, influencing how we view the world, ourselves, and our choices. It can induce a hyper-vigilant state where decision-making becomes a battleground of fear and confusion. For the Christian, this can mean a struggle to discern God’s voice amidst the clamor of past pain.

In the aftermath of trauma, major life decisions regarding career, relationships, or even faith can feel insurmountable. The fear of repeating past mistakes or new harm can lead to decision paralysis, a state where fear, rather than faith, becomes the guiding force.

The Christian Response to Trauma

In addressing trauma, it is essential to recognize that healing is both a psychological and a spiritual journey. The Bible does not shy away from the realities of pain and suffering. Psalms are filled with cries of anguish, yet they remind us of God’s presence and faithfulness in our darkest hours (Psalm 23:4).

1. Seeking God amid Pain—Intimacy with God can be a fortress in the healing journey. Prayer, meditation on the Scriptures, and participation in community worship can provide comfort and guidance. Seeking God’s wisdom in decisions allows us to surrender our fears, trusting that His plans are to prosper and not to harm (Jeremiah 29:11).

2. The Role of Community - Trauma can often isolate us, making the body of Christ an essential element in healing. A supportive faith community can offer understanding, empathy, accountability, and wisdom that aids in sound decision-making.

3. Walking in Faith, Not Fear - Scriptures encourage us not to be anxious about anything but to present our requests to God (Philippians 4:6). Making decisions post-trauma involves stepping out in faith, often before fears have entirely subsided. In this step of faith, we can witness God turning our mess into a message.

4. The Process of Renewal—Romans 12:2 discusses the transformation that comes from renewing our minds, a critical aspect of healing from trauma. Reframing our thoughts and focusing on God’s truth, we can view our decisions and circumstances with renewed hope and clarity.

The Testimony in Recovery

For Christians, trauma is not the end of the story. It’s often in our brokenness that God’s strength shines brightest. Many biblical figures, such as Joseph, David, and Paul, experienced significant trauma, yet God used their stories for greater purposes. Sharing how we’ve seen God work in our healing can become a powerful testimony that encourages others and glorifies God.

Moving Forward with Grace

As we navigate the aftereffects of trauma, making decisions with certainty can seem like a distant reality. Yet, embracing God’s grace for ourselves and relying on His guidance can free us from the chains of past pain. Each choice becomes an opportunity to experience God’s faithfulness anew.

The impact of trauma on life decisions is significant, but so is the power of Christ’s redemption. As we walk this healing journey, let us cling to the promise that God works for the good of those who love Him and have been called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

In conclusion, navigating major life decisions in the wake of trauma is a profound challenge, yet it presents an equally profound opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal. Through seeking God’s presence, relying on the wisdom of the Christian community, and walking in faith rather than fear, we can face these crossroads not as victims of our past but as victors in Christ.

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist Marriage Preparation Program: A Marriage Maintenance Perspective

Thursday, November 14, 2024 @ 1:44 PM

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist Marriage Preparation Program: A Marriage Maintenance Perspective

The “out of the box” program I have chosen to highlight, and review is one commonly used by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapist (AAMFT). The text for this brochure was written by Jeffry H. Larson, Ph.D. I have integrated the key concepts of the conceived program into this week’s discussion reading and video presentations.

Program Content and Staff Commitment

The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) has developed a program entitled Marriage Preparation. According to Larson (n.d.). “Social scientists and clinicians have found two dozen or so specific factors that predict future marital satisfaction. These factors can be viewed as forming a triangle-a model known as the marriage triangle” (para. 3). The three factors in the triangle are constructed around three key factors: (a) individual traits, (b) couple traits and (c) personal and relational contexts. It is imperative for the counseling staff involved in the premarital counseling process to have a clear framework, goals and objectives to increase the likelihood of the premarital counseling success. According to Clinton and Trent (2009), premarital counseling is highly recommended so that the prospective husband and wife can gain clarity regarding their “expectations, habits, flaws, beliefs, and values” (p. 236) and to purposefully identify marital assumptions and perceptions held by the couple with a view to minimizing future potential conflict.

Delivery Format

Individual traits include the individuals’ personalities associated with any consideration for marriage as well as an examination of the state of their emotional health. For example, a couple’s level of flexibility and adaptability to various life situations and circumstances should be assessed by the practitioner. In addition, the therapist should endeavor to determine the positive factors such as integrity and self-esteem discerned during the assessment process. Negative factors such as impulsive behaviors or irrational decision making should be identified during the skill development phase of the program. It is also important to establish couples’ worldviews on marriage. What are their core beliefs and values on marriage? Are there possible deep-rooted issues and elevated levels of dysfunction stemming from their family origin? As such, some review of the couple’s interpersonal communication skills is also highly recommend (Clinton & Trent, 2009; Larson, n.d.).

Second, couple traits include the ability of the couple to engage in meaningful and effective couple communication. Effective communication is an integral component of building a team-oriented perspective of marriage. It also serves as a vehicle towards building oneness in the marriage relationship and more effective conflict resolution skills (Larson, n.d). Another critical component of the couple traits is determining how long and how well the couples know each other. According to Clinton and Trent (2009), during the assessment interview some of the suggested questions related to the degree of acquaintance should include: “How did you meet? What do you love about each other?” (p. 237).

Third, personal and relationship contexts include family background characteristics. It is important to establish from both parties if they were previous marriages or any existing children or specific plans about having children. Clinton and Trent (2009) suggest that interview questions on specifics plans in relations to children, parenting styles theological histories, finances and money management, friendship and boundary demarcations, extended familial relationships and the quality of an individual's parents' marriage should all be discussed (Clinton & Trent, 2009; Larson, n.d).

Participants’ Commitment

Participants’ commitment can be compartmentalized into two phases. First, it is important to delineate and understand the premarital factors discussed above. The second phase is based on seeking to assess the three factors outlined above in oneself as well as in the relationship with one’s future spouse. This can be accomplished most effectively by having couples complete a comprehensive Premarital Assessment Questionnaire (PAQ). Best outcomes are obtained when couples are encouraged to gain a meaningful interpretation of the questionnaire’s results with their partner (Larson, n.d).

Strengths and Weaknesses

Three high-quality Premarital Assessment Questionnaires (PAQs) provide couples with useful feedback on their strengths and weaknesses. The three areas of focus are: (a) Facilitating Open Couple Communication, Understanding and Study (FOCCUS), (b) Relationship Evaluation (RELATE) and (c) Premarital Preparation and Relationship Enhancement (PREPARE). It takes approximately one hour to complete the PAQs. Upon completion, the couple receives a detailed written report “about individual traits, couple traits, and contexts of your relationship” (Larson, n.d., para. 7) The strengths and weaknesses in the defined categories outlined above are highlighted.

RELATE can be completed online and provides a self-interpretive report, enabling you to analyze and interpret the results. FOCCUS and PREPARE are used with the assistance of a premarital counselor or clergy person trained in using these instruments. The cost of taking these PAQs is relatively inexpensive ($10 - $30 per couple). All contain questions for people considering remarriage, as well. The accuracy of the results depends on the honesty and insight of the partners when they answered the questions. (Larson, n.d., para. 7)

The fundamental goal of the PAQs is to heighten awareness and discussion between couples. It also serves to: (a) discover the individual strengths and weaknesses of the couple and (b) evaluate their readiness for marriage. Ideally, these goals should be met prior to marriage. The PAQs aim to encourage awareness and couple discussion of strengths and weaknesses and readiness for marriage. The results from the PAQs are used to cultivate discussions between partners to more systematically work on developing individual strengths and overcoming weaknesses. This is important to do because of weaknesses that exist before marriage. which remain unattended, usually develop into bigger problems following marriage. In addition, since couples during the premarital stage of their relationship tend to be more emotionally engaged and committed to their relationship, it is arguably the optimum time to have, what could be at times, potentially sensitive discussions (Larson, n.d.).

Program Application

There are three important keys necessary to move from the application of the Personal Assessment Questionnaire (PAQ) to personal and couple improvement: (a) Identifying the specific areas of concern found in the PAQ results and celebrating the strengths perhaps like healthy personal and family backgrounds, (b) deciding what are the primary contributors to problems in the relationship. For example, poor listening skills, ambivalence to marriage or feeling a sense of familial and partner pressure to get married and (c) identifying the relevant resources needed to help improve any weaknesses discovered during the assessment process. Some possible resources may include “reading self-help books, listening to audio or video tapes, attending a communication skills training group, or premarital counseling” (Larson, n.d., para. 8).

Likelihood of Success

Relationship success in marriage is contingent on a plethora of critical factors. Vernick (2013) sheds light on some of the essentials that she posits are necessary for a thriving marital relationship namely: mutuality (mutual partner contributions to relationship care and maintenance); reciprocity (shared power and responsibilities in the relationship) and freedom (being allowed to be authentic in your marriage relationship). Arguably such couple traits increase the likelihood of marital success. Likewise, Weeks and Hoff (2005) advance a triangular model, not dissimilar to that proposed by the AAMFT, which incorporates three components namely: commitment, intimacy and passion. Commitment is a cold cognitive component, intimacy is the warm and emotional component and passion is the hot “forming the motivational leg of the triangle” (Weeks & Hoff, 2005, p. 24). According to Larson (n.d):

A PAQ may also be helpful in discovering that further assessment or counseling is needed. For example, if an individual's PAQ results show that she or he is depressed, anxious, or has low self-esteem, a more thorough mental health assessment may be recommended, possibly including therapy. The person's improvement in mood and self-esteem will naturally increase the chances of being happily married. (para. 9)

In summary, the AAMFT’s Preparation Program incorporates several salient features geared towards developing the skills training necessary for positive outcomes in marriage preparation. In this discussion, I have sought to highlight some of its key elements including: the program content and staff commitment required, its format for effective delivery, the level of participant commitment needed, the programs key strengths and weaknesses, its application style and the key elements that could determine its likelihood of success.

References

Clinton, T., & Trent, J. (2009). The quick-reference guide to marriage & family counseling. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic.

Larson, J. H. (n.d.). Marriage preparation. Retrieved from https://www.aamft.org/iMIS15/AAMFT/Content/consumer_updates/marriage_preparation.aspx

Vernick, L. (2013). The emotionally destructive marriage: How to find your voice & reclaim your hope. Colorado Springs, CO: Waterbrook.

Weeks, G. R., & Hof, L. (2005). Integrative solutions: Treating common problems in couples’ therapy. New York, NY: Brunner & Mazel.

Mom Decision Fatigue: Why Making One More Choice Feels Impossible

Thursday, November 14, 2024 @ 12:38 PM

Hey mama, does the idea of making one more decision make you want to crawl back under the covers? The nonstop choices we have to make—big ones, small ones, and the endless in-between—can leave us feeling like our minds have simply checked out. And it’s no wonder. Between managing the house, caring for kids, and keeping up with everyone’s needs, it’s as if our mental energy gets zapped from morning to night.

If you’re feeling this way, it’s not because you’re doing anything wrong. It’s because motherhood is hard, and the pressure to make endless decisions, often perfectly, is exhausting. So let’s talk about what mom decision fatigue is, why it hits us so hard, and how we can take that mental load down a notch.

P.S. If you’re new here, you might be wondering, who is this person acting like they know? Hi, it’s me—mom of four, and I’ve been through it all, from mental overload to the bone-deep exhaustion. I’ve had my share of days where I just wanted to pause all the “what’s next” questions. So trust me, I get it, and I’m here to help you find some calm in the chaos. Let’s dive in.

What Is Mom Decision Fatigue?
Mom decision fatigue is what happens when you feel like you’re running on empty from making decision after decision. It’s that “I just can’t decide” feeling, even about simple stuff, because your brain is done with thinking. And while all moms experience some level of mental exhaustion, decision fatigue becomes real when you’re juggling everyone’s needs and constantly making calls on things like what’s for dinner, scheduling, and yes, even big life choices.

The Weight of Constant Choices
Motherhood is a marathon of choices. When we’re not deciding what to cook or whether we should sign up for the latest after-school activity, we’re juggling our own work, the household, and our relationships. All that deciding can lead to overwhelm and burnout, making even simple choices seem impossible.

If your mental load feels like it’s weighing you down, you’re not alone. And if you’re struggling with that nagging need to get it just right, check out The Pressure to Be the Perfect Mom: How to Embrace Being Good Enough for tips on releasing that perfectionism.

Signs You’re Dealing with Decision Fatigue
How do you know if you’re caught in the cycle of decision fatigue? Here are a few tell-tale signs that your mental energy may be running low:

Procrastination on Small Choices
When you’re so drained that even tiny decisions feel monumental, it’s a strong sign you’re dealing with decision fatigue. Suddenly, picking a show to watch, deciding on a snack, or choosing what to make for dinner becomes exhausting. These small choices usually require minimal effort, but when you’re burnt out, even thinking about them can feel like one choice too many. You’re not being lazy or indecisive—it’s just your brain asking for a break.

Feeling Overwhelmed by Simple Tasks
Tasks that used to be quick and easy now seem like a mountain to climb. Folding laundry, prepping school lunches, or tackling a basic errand may feel like it requires way more energy than you can give. It’s like each task holds a hidden weight, and rather than taking action, your brain hits pause. Sound familiar? You’re not alone—decision fatigue makes even the smallest tasks feel like big asks because your mental reserves are running on empty.

Irritability and Emotional Exhaustion
Ever notice yourself snapping over something minor or feeling waves of frustration out of nowhere? When your mental bandwidth is maxed out, it often shows up in your emotions. Little things that wouldn’t normally bother you become the tipping point, and you may find yourself more emotional, irritable, or just worn out. It’s as if your tolerance for stress shrinks, and it’s not your fault—it’s your brain’s way of saying, “I’ve had enough!”

Avoidance or Decision Paralysis
Sometimes, decision fatigue shows up as avoidance or an overwhelming feeling of paralysis. You might find yourself putting off decisions that need to be made—like booking appointments, handling emails, or even making a simple phone call. It’s not that you don’t know what to do, but that your mind is so worn out it can’t handle another choice right now. Instead, you might avoid the decision entirely, hoping it’ll become easier tomorrow (spoiler alert: it usually doesn’t).

If these signs feel all too familiar, know that you’re not alone. Decision fatigue is part of the “too much” that comes with modern motherhood, and it doesn’t mean you’re failing or that something is wrong with you. It just means you’re human, doing the best you can. The good news is, there are ways to ease this load and reclaim some much-needed mental space.

How to Ease Mom Decision Fatigue
Let’s talk solutions, because while it may not be possible to skip the decision-making, we can definitely make it easier. These strategies will help lighten the mental load, freeing up space for you to breathe and actually enjoy the moments that matter.

1. Simplify Your Routines to Remove Unnecessary Choices
Routines can be a sanity saver for moms. When you know what’s coming and don’t have to decide in the moment, your mind gets a little break. Mornings are a perfect example—if you can create a flow that feels good, you’ll find that “what’s next” doesn’t seem so hard to tackle.

Simplify Your Mornings
Building a simple morning routine can be life-changing, especially when you’re burnt out. And don’t worry; it doesn’t have to be a strict, all-or-nothing process. Just having a few key things in place can make mornings feel less chaotic. For more on creating an approachable morning routine, check out How to Create a Simple Morning Routine That Works for Burnt-Out Moms.

2. Set Boundaries to Protect Your Mental Space
Saying “no” can feel hard—especially when it’s to something you think you “should” do. But boundaries are the real MVP when it comes to lightening your load. The truth? You don’t have to make every decision or do it all. Setting boundaries lets you focus on what actually matters, which can help calm your mind.

Practice Saying No Without Guilt
Start small by practicing saying no to things that drain you. If an extra activity or commitment feels like too much, let it go. Creating space isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. Need a guide on saying no? How to Set Boundaries and Find Peace: A Guide to Saying No Politely and Maintaining Healthy Relationships has practical ways to start.

3. Use Simple Systems to Cut Down on Choices
No need to dive into elaborate organization methods here; small, simple systems can ease the choice overload without adding complexity to your life. Think about the areas that usually trip you up—like meals or getting out the door. Then put a small system in place to remove some of those micro-decisions.

Meal Planning (Without the Overwhelm): Even a rough meal plan for the week can save you daily decisions on what to eat. Nothing fancy needed—just jot down a few go-to meals.

Clothing Choices: Set out your outfit the night before, or pick one for each day at the start of the week. Every decision you remove frees up a little more mental space.

4. Let Go of “Perfect” and Trust Yourself
When every decision feels monumental, it’s often because we’re putting too much pressure on ourselves. It’s okay to choose “good enough.” Embrace imperfection and know that every decision doesn’t have to be the “best” one.

It might be helpful to think of each choice as an experiment instead of a definitive answer. This mindset shift can make decisions feel less loaded and more like learning moments.

Finding Energy and Peace Amidst Decision Fatigue
When decision fatigue hits hard, self-care is one of the best ways to refuel. Give yourself permission to step away from the constant mental load, even if it’s only for a few minutes. Take a breather, journal, or just close your eyes and sit in quiet. Even small pauses can make a difference.

And if you’re looking to add more small moments of joy and self-connection, try exploring What Are Glimmers? Small Moments of Joy to Lighten Your Day as a Mom to find ways to reclaim little pockets of happiness amidst the daily hustle.

Ready to Ditch Decision Fatigue and Simplify Your Mental Load?
If you’re feeling worn out by the constant decision-making, know this: you don’t have to keep doing it all alone. Decision fatigue is real, and the mental load of motherhood can feel heavy. But there are ways to make it lighter and bring back some ease to your daily life. Let’s recap the key takeaways from today:

Recognize the Signs: When small choices feel monumental, when simple tasks feel like too much, or when irritability sneaks in, it’s time to give yourself grace and acknowledge that decision fatigue is playing a role.

Simplify Routines and Choices: Creating streamlined routines around meals, mornings, and daily tasks takes some of the thinking off your plate and gives you breathing room.

Set Boundaries to Protect Your Energy: Saying “no” or creating space around things that drain you can help lighten the mental load and preserve your energy for what really matters.

Embrace Imperfection: Let go of the pressure to make perfect choices. Choosing “good enough” can be a freeing and powerful way to reduce decision-making stress.

But here’s the thing: knowing these strategies is one thing; putting them into practice is another. That’s where coaching comes in.

If you’re ready to turn these insights into real, lasting changes, I’m here to help…
If you’re finding yourself exhausted by the constant mental juggling act of motherhood, you’re not alone. As a mom of four and someone who’s walked this path, I know just how heavy the daily decisions can feel, from small choices to the big ones. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, wondering if you’re doing enough or if you’re handling things “right.” But here’s a bit of relief: motherhood doesn’t have to mean carrying every choice and task alone, and it definitely doesn’t have to mean perfection.

That’s why I became a mom life coach. In our sessions, I work with moms like you to lighten that mental load, let go of the “shoulds,” and find an approach to daily life that feels supportive, realistic, and just right for you. If you’re ready to feel more calm, more present, and more in tune with what matters most, we’ll tackle it together with practical, down-to-earth strategies that work with your unique life.

In our sessions, we’ll go beyond the basics to get at the heart of what’s causing your decision fatigue. Together, we’ll work on practical, personalized strategies tailored to your unique life and goals, so that you can free up more mental energy, gain clarity, and find a rhythm that truly feels manageable. Here’s how we can tackle decision fatigue together:

Create Custom Routines That Work for You: We’ll look at your daily patterns and build routines that make your life easier—not more rigid. Imagine a morning routine that feels calming, or a simplified meal plan that doesn’t require daily decision-making.

Learn Boundaries and Time-Saving Techniques: We’ll work on learning to say “no” without guilt, identifying time-wasting traps, and creating boundaries around your mental space. Together, we’ll create “buffer” times for decompression that feel doable and nourishing.

Develop Realistic Self-Care Habits for Recharging: Forget the all-or-nothing self-care approach. We’ll find ways for you to recharge in small, realistic ways that fit into your daily life, even with a full schedule and family needs to juggle.

Reframe and Let Go of Perfectionism: If fear of making the wrong choice is fueling your fatigue, we’ll work on releasing that pressure. We’ll build your confidence to make choices that feel right without the weight of “getting it perfect.”

You deserve to feel more present, less stressed, and more at ease in the choices you make each day. If you’re ready to step into a version of motherhood that feels lighter and more aligned with what you truly need, let’s work together to make it happen.

Imagine what it would be like to wake up feeling a bit more energized, knowing you have a toolkit that helps you face the day with more peace and less overwhelm. Ready to find that balance? I’d love to support you on this journey.

Here’s to simplifying, reclaiming your headspace, and finding joy in the little moments. Let’s connect and get started.

-Kelly Mynatt, MA, BCBA, Mom Life Coach