I Thought I F*#ked Up!

Yes, I have been a lot less patient with my kids. I did yell last night, and I felt like crap about it immediately. I apologized within minutes.

I recognize that the way I’ve been speaking to myself and the expectations I’ve set for myself are not acceptable.

I’ve been unwell recently, and my health has added stress.

(I’m doing okay and recovering, thanks)

My son started school this week—this has been a big transition for all of us.

Our family is grieving a much-loved family member, and we are far away from those we love.

I could go on and on, but the reality is—this is life. We all experience highs and lows, and I am no different.

What I did notice, though, was that I had slipped back into old habits—pushing on and on, not listening to my needs, putting others’ needs and expectations before my own, and then feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and resentful. And on top of that? I was speaking unkindly to myself when I inevitably failed, as anyone would with such unrealistic goals.

I share this with you not for any reaction, but to show you that we all struggle at times. Life can be challenging—even for those of us in personal development with all the tools to support our well-being. We mess up too. And we all have a choice.

So what have I done with this awareness?

I made a choice to slow down, to pull back on my commitments over the next few weeks.

• I bought a 2025 daily planner, and every night, I write my plans and to-do list for the following day.
• I have whiteboards at my desk and in the kitchen with weekly objectives and empowering quotes.
• I recommitted to daily movement—whether it’s a walk, a run, or a 7-minute workout using an app—at least five days a week.
• And I changed how I was speaking to myself. Instead of thinking from a place of lack—focusing on all I have to do and what I haven’t accomplished—I actively think about what I’m doing well and focus on what I’m grateful for.
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I want to live a life that feels good—not just for me, but for the people around me. I want my kids to know that I will mess up, and that’s okay—because I can dust myself off, say sorry if needed, and get back up and try again.

I know from conversations with other mums that these experiences aren’t unique. I also noticed embarrassment and shame creeping in for me. How I plan to move forward is by speaking my truth, acknowledging my feelings, and, hopefully, helping even one mum feel less alone or ashamed. If it inspires others to speak more kindly to themselves and recognize the amazing things they do each day, then it’s worth sharing.

My top takeaways from my recent experience of overwhelm:

Speak kindly to yourself – The way you talk to yourself impacts how you see the world and how you show up in it.

Take time to notice and acknowledge your feelings – They have a story to tell. Listen to them and make necessary changes.

This too will pass – Life is always moving. We will experience good and challenging times, and I know I have moved through tough times before. I survived, I learned something, and I will keep going.



With love,
Maria XX