Being a mum is not always easy. We are responsible for someone else’s life so we feel like it’s our job to do everything we can to make them happy, fulfilled and many other things. But sometimes, we need a little reminder that we're not superwomen. We're just human beings who need care and attention, just like anyone else.
After having my second child, I went through a bit of an identity crisis. That’s when I discovered a few books that really helped me come to terms with my new life, those books were E-Squared by Pam Grout and Happy Mum Happy Baby by Giovanna Fletcher. They helped in different ways, one by reminding that there is more to life, another by showing that parenthood could be raw and messy, but also beautiful.
Then there were other books and other people, podcasts and blogs. But the two books that I’d like to mention here are The Midlife Point by Gabbi Logan and Motherkind by Zoe Blaskey. They are written by the two inspirational women who try very hard to show other women that things are not always what they seem. That we don’t have to suffer in silence. That changes that happen in our lives don’t have to be painful and that we don’t need to go through them alone.
1. E-Squared by Pam Grout
Pam Grout’s book wasn’t written specifically for mums, but it was exactly what I needed at the time. It’s a bit “woo-woo” and magical, but that was what spoke to me. I didn’t need more facts or science or how-to parenting books; I just needed something to remind me that life is bigger than just being a mum. This book helped me dream again, laugh, and visualise my future self. It reminded me that I'm still my own person with so much more to offer.
2. The Midpoint Plan by Gabby Logan
This one is for women approaching or going through the midlife. Gabby Logan’s book came out recently, and it talks about how life doesn’t suddenly stop when you hit your midlife. We don’t just turn into “old ladies” overnight. It’s all about embracing the changes that come with aging. I found it refreshing because it reminded me that it’s okay to change, that becoming a mother, or watching our kids grow up is just part of life’s natural cycle. And there are many other cycles that we go through.
3. Motherkind by Zoe Blaskey
Zoe Blaskey’s book, “Motherkind”, is also new, but I've been a fan of her podcast for years. This book (and the podcast) has been a great reminder that it’s okay to have tough days. Being a mum doesn’t mean you have to feel an overwhelming love for your kids every single moment. There are hard days, and that’s completely normal. Zoe’s work has helped me realize that motherhood is just another phase of life, like adolescence, and it doesn’t happen overnight. You grow into it, sometimes painfully, but you’re never alone.
4. Happy Mum Happy Baby by Giovanna Fletcher
When my daughter was just a few months old, I read *Happy Mum, Happy Baby* by Giovanna Fletcher. This book is like chatting with a friend—it’s honest, relatable, and full of helpful advice. Giovanna shares her personal motherhood journey and offers tips that I found really practical. Her book made me feel seen. It reassured me that my needs weren’t silly and that it’s okay to ask for help, take a break, or do something just for myself.
Final Thoughts
There are many more books that I found useful. But w matters most is finding a book that speaks to you and your needs, that feels like a good friend who’s always there for you.
These four books have been a great help for me. Some of them, I refer to quite regularly, and others lifted me up when I first became a mum. But all four of them showed me that I am not alone on this journey.
I am also grateful to these and many other books for the reminder that I don't have to give up my own life to show my kids I love them. I don’t need to sacrifice my dreams to ensure they’re happy and fulfilled.
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