S3E72: Embracing Curiosity over Judgment: Transforming Triggers into Growth

Have you ever felt like you're drowning in the waves of motherhood, desperately trying to keep your head above water? For many of us, the journey to becoming a mama is filled with unexpected twists and turns that can leave lasting impacts on our hearts and minds.

In this raw and honest conversation, I sit down with Mel, a mother of two who opens up about her rollercoaster ride through fertility struggles, IVF, traumatic birth experiences, and the challenges of parenting far from family support. Her story is a powerful reminder that the path to motherhood isn't always smooth, but it's one we don't have to walk alone.

Navigating the Unexpected Turns of Motherhood

Mel shares how her three-year journey with infertility and IVF treatments tested her resilience and shattered her expectations of how life "should" unfold. She candidly discusses:
- The emotional toll of fertility treatments and miscarriage
- Coping with a traumatic first birth experience
- The stark differences between her two children's personalities
- Struggling to meet everyone's needs as a mom of two
Her experiences highlight the often-overlooked challenges many mamas face as they adjust to their new identities and responsibilities.

Finding Light in the Darkness

Despite the difficulties, Mel's story is ultimately one of hope and growth. She reveals how:
- Relocating during a global pandemic forced her to confront her struggles
- An online course in positive psychology became a lifeline for connection and self-discovery
- Learning to question her thoughts and reactions led to greater self-compassion

Practical Tools for Untriggering

Mel introduces us to the Choice Map, a powerful visual tool for shifting from judgment to curiosity. She explains how this simple yet effective technique can help mamas:
- Recognize when they're spiraling into negative thought patterns
- Ask empowering questions to gain new perspectives
- Cultivate self-compassion and understanding for themselves and others

Your Invitation to Self-Discovery and Healing

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood or struggling to reconcile your pre-mama identity with your current reality, this conversation offers a beacon of hope. Mel's journey reminds us that healing is possible, even when it feels like we're drowning in our emotions.

Are you ready to explore new tools for managing your triggers and rediscovering your sense of possibility? Join us for this heartfelt discussion and take the first step towards a more compassionate, empowered version of yourself – both as a mama and as an individual.

Links
Connect with Mel: https://www.permissiontobehuman.ca/
Get FREE access to the Mama Untriggered Starter Kit: https://mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/mama-untriggered 
Join the Mamahood After Trauma Inner Circle: https://bit.ly/MATinnercircle