Are you constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you’re falling short? It’s a common struggle for many working mums. In a recent episode of the Working Mumma Podcast, Olympian Brooke Hanson shares her journey from elite athlete to working mother, providing invaluable insights on how to manage the mental load, stay present, and embrace the journey of motherhood.

Embracing Every Stage of Motherhood

Brooke reflects on how quickly the stages of motherhood pass by, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment. From the baby stage to dealing with teenage challenges, she underscores that each phase is fleeting and should be cherished. “Everyone says it goes so fast, so I think that’s even more reason to live in the moment through the good days, the bad days, and everything that comes with it,” Brooke advises. Her perspective encourages working mums to appreciate the journey, no matter how challenging it might be.

Navigating the Overwhelm

Feeling overwhelmed is a common theme for working mums. Brooke shares her strategy for managing these moments by going with the flow and embracing positivity. She stresses the importance of showing vulnerability and being accountable, both to herself and her children. “Go with the flow, but it’s okay to show that vulnerability,” Brooke says. This approach helps to normalize the ups and downs of motherhood, making it easier to cope with the challenges.

The Power of Support Systems

Brooke highlights the significance of having a strong support system. She talks about her involvement with the Starlight Children’s Foundation and how their support helped her family during difficult times. “For me, it’s just so important to give back and to feel supported,” Brooke shares. Her experience underscores the importance of seeking and offering support, whether through friends, family, or charitable organizations.

Filling Your Cup

Maintaining personal well-being is crucial for balancing motherhood and career. Brooke shares her tips for self-care, which include regular exercise, finding moments of peace, and connecting with friends. “For me, I still have to prioritize that health and well-being space,” Brooke says. She emphasizes that taking care of yourself enables you to be the best version of yourself for your family.

Brooke’s Insights on Being “Busy”

Brooke also addresses the pressure of being busy and how to overcome it. She believes in focusing on the positives and not getting caught up in the hustle. “People say, ‘How do you continue on with this energy?’ and I was like, well, you don’t see me filling my own cup,” Brooke notes. Her advice is to find what refuels you and make it a priority.

Key Takeaways from Brooke Hanson

• Live in the Moment: Embrace each stage of motherhood and appreciate the journey
• Go with the Flow: Accept that you can’t control everything and stay positive
• Show Vulnerability: It’s okay to have tough days and share those moments with your children
• Seek Support: Build a strong support system and don’t hesitate to ask for help
• Prioritize Self-Care: Find what refuels you and make it a part of your routine
• Normalize Busy: Focus on the positives and avoid getting caught up in the hustle
• Teach Accountability: Encourage your children to be responsible and accountable for their actions
• Stay Grateful: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude and acknowledge the small victories

A Special Note on Infant Loss

Trigger warning: Infant loss is discussed in this episode. Brooke shares her heart-wrenching experience with the loss of her son Jack and the vital support her family received from the Starlight Children’s Foundation. She emphasizes the importance of finding strength in support networks during such devastating times.

Conclusion

Brooke Hanson’s insights offer a powerful reminder that balancing motherhood and career is a journey filled with highs and lows. By embracing vulnerability, seeking support, and prioritizing self-care, working mums can navigate the challenges and find fulfillment in their personal and professional lives.

Tune in to this episode of the Working Mumma Podcast to hear more from Brooke Hanson and gain practical tips for your own journey. Listen now on Apple Podcast or Spotify.

Connect with Brooke:

• Instagram: @brookehanson_oly_oam
• Website: brookehanson.com

Support Starlight Children’s Foundation:

• Visit starlight.org.au to learn more about their work and how you can get involved.