The blog post delves into a recent conversation about parent coaching with Catherine Kelly from Breathe Easy Parenting on the Mom Mentality podcast. The discussion highlights the significant distinction between coaching and therapy, emphasizing coaching as a tool for empowerment and enhancing family dynamics rather than attempting to "fix" parents. It positions parent coaching as a supportive collaboration that helps unlock parental potential through self-discovery and nurturing positive family environments.
In the current mental health landscape, where stress and isolation are rampant, parent coaching emerges as a critical resource. The conversation underscores how coaching serves as a lifeline for parents when traditional support systems like therapy are stretched thin. It further explores the importance of self-awareness, facing personal traumas, and the rewards of conscious parenting in transforming individual and familial well-being.
A crucial aspect discussed is the journey of finding the right parent coach, emphasizing the need to connect with a coach whose spirit and values resonate with one's own. This relationship, often initiated through discovery calls or social media engagement, is foundational to fostering trust and growth. The blog underscores that reaching out for coaching is not about correcting flaws but rather about embracing the continual journey of parenting with openness, empathy, and connectivity.
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Welcome to the very first post for Mom Mentality! I’m so glad you’re here.
Let me ask you this: How do you feel about Thanksgiving? Really think about it for a second. Because for me, Thanksgiving has always felt like a mix of emotions—a little sweet, a little heavy, and a lot nostalgic.
There’s this expectation that it’s supposed to be all about gratitude and gathering, but let’s be real. The holidays don’t always look like a Pinterest-perfect table full of happy faces and golden-brown turkey. Sometimes, they’re messy, complicated, or even downright hard. And if you’ve ever felt that way, let me just say this: You’re not alone.
Today, I want to talk about gratitude—what it really means, how we can embrace it even when things aren’t perfect, and how it can completely change the way we experience life. Whether you’re in the middle of holiday chaos or just trying to hold it together, I hope this post gives you some comfort, some encouragement, and maybe even a little inspiration.
The Bittersweet Reality of Thanksgiving
If you’ve ever thought, Why does Thanksgiving feel so weirdly emotional?, you’re not imagining it. For a lot of us, this time of year stirs up a strange cocktail of feelings.
On the one hand, there’s this warmth that comes with traditions—like baking pies, watching the parade, or playing board games with family. Those moments are priceless. But on the other hand, the holidays have this way of shining a spotlight on what’s missing.
Maybe it’s a loved one who’s no longer here. Maybe it’s the fact that your family dynamic has changed. Or maybe, like me, you’re just feeling the weight of trying to make everything “perfect” for everyone else. It’s a lot, isn’t it?
For me, Thanksgiving has always been a bittersweet holiday. It reminds me of how much I have to be thankful for, but it also makes me hyper-aware of what’s hard. That’s where gratitude comes in—and not in a cheesy, “just be grateful for what you have” kind of way. I’m talking about the real, messy, life-changing kind of gratitude.
What Gratitude Really Looks Like
Let’s get one thing straight: Gratitude isn’t about ignoring your struggles or pretending everything’s okay when it’s not. That’s toxic positivity, and we don’t do that here. Gratitude is about recognizing the good in your life even when things aren’t perfect.
Here’s an example. A few years ago, I had a Thanksgiving that was—well, let’s just say it wasn’t great. The food didn’t turn out the way I’d planned, the kids were cranky, and I was stressed to the max. By the end of the day, I felt like a total failure.
But later that night, I sat down and thought about the little moments I’d overlooked. Like the way my youngest laughed uncontrollably at a silly joke during dinner. Or the way the house smelled like cinnamon and pumpkin pie. Or even just the fact that we were all under the same roof, together.
Those tiny things? They were enough to remind me that even on hard days, there’s still so much to appreciate. Gratitude doesn’t erase the hard stuff, but it helps you see the whole picture instead of just focusing on what’s wrong.
How Gratitude Can Transform Your Mindset
Here’s the thing about gratitude: It’s not just something you feel. It’s something you practice.
The more you look for the good in your life, the more you start to notice it. And over time, those little moments of appreciation can shift your entire mindset.
Think of it like this. Imagine you’re wearing glasses with a smudge right in the middle. At first, it’s all you can see, and it’s super frustrating. But if you clean them off, suddenly you can see everything clearly again—the good, the bad, and all the beauty in between.
Gratitude is like cleaning off that smudge. It doesn’t mean the hard stuff disappears, but it helps you see beyond it.
3 Ways to Practice Gratitude (Even When It’s Hard)
Okay, so how do we actually do this? How do we practice gratitude when life feels overwhelming? Here are three simple things that have worked for me:
1. Start a Gratitude Journal
I know, I know—this sounds like one of those things you mean to do but never actually get around to. But hear me out. A gratitude journal doesn’t have to be fancy. Just grab a notebook and jot down three things you’re thankful for every day.
They don’t have to be big things, either. Maybe it’s your morning coffee, a hug from your kid, or the way the sunlight hit your window. The point is to train your brain to notice the good stuff.
2. Take a Gratitude Walk
This one’s my favorite. When you’re feeling stuck or stressed, take a walk and focus on what you’re grateful for in the moment. Maybe it’s the crisp fall air, the sound of leaves crunching under your feet, or the fact that you have a warm coat to wear.
Something about being outside makes gratitude feel more natural—and bonus, it’s a great way to clear your head.
3. Share Your Gratitude with Others
Sometimes, the best way to feel grateful is to express it. Send a text to a friend who’s been there for you. Write a thank-you note to someone who made a difference in your life. Or just tell your partner or kids how much you appreciate them.
Gratitude has this amazing ripple effect. When you share it, it not only lifts your mood but also brightens someone else’s day.
You Don’t Have to Do It All
Before we wrap this up, let me just say one more thing: You don’t have to have it all together. You don’t have to host the perfect Thanksgiving or create a picture-perfect holiday season.
What matters most isn’t the decorations or the food or even the traditions. It’s the love, the connection, and the little moments of joy that you’ll carry with you long after the turkey is gone.
So this year, give yourself permission to let go of perfection and focus on what really matters. Embrace the bittersweet moments. Find gratitude in the chaos. And remember—you’re doing an amazing job, just as you are.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!
I’d love to hear from you. What are you grateful for this Thanksgiving? What’s one small thing that brings you joy, even on hard days? Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on Instagram.
Thanks for joining me on this journey. Until next time, take care and keep showing up for yourself and your family.
Ah, the holidays! A time for twinkling lights, warm memories, and the comfort of family traditions. But let’s be real—it's also a time when things can get a little, well, overwhelming. The pressure to make everything perfect can overshadow the magic of the season. If you've ever felt this way, you’re not alone. In this episode of Mom Mentality, we’re diving into how simplifying your holidays can lead to more joy, stronger connections, and lasting memories.
Here’s a casual, heartfelt guide to simplifying your holiday season—without sacrificing the fun.
A LOOK BACK: WHEN THE HOLIDAYS WERE OVERWHELMING
I’ll never forget a Christmas a few years ago when I felt completely buried under the weight of my own expectations. My to-do list had its own zip code, and I was so caught up in finding the perfect tree, making the perfect meal, and organizing the perfect holiday experience that I forgot what really mattered—my family.
That year, something had to give. So, I gave myself permission to simplify. The result? We ditched the elaborate meal for takeout, skipped over-the-top decorations, and leaned into quiet, cozy moments together. We played board games, watched silly holiday movies, and shared a lot of laughs.
It wasn’t perfect, but it was memorable—and isn’t that the point?
The Power of Simplifying
Simplifying your holidays isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about cutting out what doesn’t serve you. It’s about making space for what really matters.
Here are some tips to help you refocus your holiday season:
1. Set Your Priorities
Ask yourself: What truly matters to me and my family this holiday season?
- Is it spending quality time together?
- Sharing meals with loved ones?
- Giving back to your community?
Once you know your priorities, start letting go of the things that don’t align with them.
2. Say No (Without Guilt)
You don’t have to attend every event, bake every cookie from scratch, or buy extravagant gifts for everyone. It’s okay to set boundaries and protect your energy.
3. Simplify Gift-Giving
Instead of feeling pressured to buy mountains of presents, focus on intentional gifts. Consider experiences over things—like a family outing or a personalized letter of appreciation.
Meaningful Family Traditions
Creating family traditions is a beautiful way to foster connection and make memories, but they don’t have to be Pinterest-perfect. Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the most impactful.
Here are a few ideas for family traditions that won’t break the bank—or your sanity:
- Bake Together: Whether it’s cookies, gingerbread houses, or pies, baking together is a sweet way to bond.
- Movie Nights: Pick a favorite holiday movie, grab some popcorn, and snuggle up as a family.
- Volunteer Together: Giving back as a family can bring a new depth to your holiday celebrations. Look for opportunities at local food banks, shelters, or community events.
- Craft a New Tradition: Maybe it’s reading a holiday book aloud, having a hot cocoa bar, or going for a winter hike. Let your creativity shine!
Embrace Joy Over Perfection
If there’s one takeaway I want you to have, it’s this: Perfection is overrated.
The magic of the holidays is in the imperfect moments. The lopsided ornaments your kids put on the tree. The cookies that somehow end up burnt on one side. The unplanned laughter when things go sideways.
Here’s the truth: Your kids won’t remember whether the tablecloth matched the centerpiece. They’ll remember the laughter, the warmth, and the love.
So let go of the picture-perfect holiday you’ve seen on Instagram. Lean into the real, messy, beautiful moments instead.
Practical Steps to Simplify
If you’re ready to simplify your holiday season, here are a few actionable steps to get started:
- Declutter Your Calendar: Look at your commitments and decide what’s truly necessary. Let go of the rest.
- Delegate Tasks: You don’t have to do everything yourself. Let family members pitch in with decorating, cooking, or wrapping gifts.
- Embrace Shortcuts: Store-bought desserts, pre-lit trees, or online shopping can be lifesavers.
- Focus on Connection: Plan activities that encourage togetherness, like a family game night or a walk through the neighborhood to see holiday lights.
🛠 Tools for a Stress-Free Holiday
Simplifying your holidays doesn’t mean you have to give up organization. Here are some tools to help you stay on top of things:
- Holiday Planner: Keep track of to-do lists, gift ideas, and schedules in one place.
- Budget Tracker: Set a budget for gifts, food, and activities to avoid overspending.
- Meal Planning Apps: Save time and stress by planning simple, crowd-pleasing meals.
Remember, tools are there to help, not overwhelm. Use them as a guide, not a rulebook.
Share the Joy
As you embrace a simpler holiday season, you might find that your approach inspires others to do the same. Share your favorite traditions or stress-reducing tips with friends and family. Let’s start a movement toward more intentional, joyful holidays together.
A Holiday Season That Reflects What Matters Most
This holiday season, I encourage you to focus on what truly matters: the love and connection you share with your family. Simplify, embrace imperfection, and create meaningful traditions that reflect your values.
Let this be the year you let go of the hustle and lean into the joy.
Let’s Connect!
I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite family traditions, new or old? What steps are you taking to simplify your holidays this year?
Let’s keep the conversation going and inspire each other to make this season truly magical.
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of ADHD, motherhood, and self-compassion. Our guest, Ashley Ogbaselassie, a fellow parenting coach and mom of three, shares her personal journey of navigating the challenges of early motherhood and the transformative impact of an ADHD diagnosis.
Early Struggles and the ADHD Awakening
Ashley candidly discusses the overwhelming feelings of inadequacy and isolation she experienced during her early years of motherhood. She shares how the seemingly endless cycle of exhaustion, frustration, and self-doubt took a toll on her mental health. It wasn’t until she sought an ADHD diagnosis for her son that she began to recognize the similarities in her own struggles.
Breaking the Stigma and Embracing Self-Compassion
One of the most powerful aspects of Ashley’s story is her willingness to challenge the stigma surrounding ADHD, particularly in women. She highlights how perfectionism, often associated with ADHD, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome, especially during the holiday season.
Practical Tips for Navigating the Holidays
As the holidays approach, Ashley offers practical advice for managing sensory overload and setting realistic expectations. She emphasizes the importance of self-care practices, such as mindfulness and meditation, to help moms with ADHD stay grounded and reduce stress.
A Message of Hope
For moms who may be struggling, Ashley shares a message of hope and encouragement. She reminds us that it’s okay to ask for help, to set boundaries, and to prioritize self-care. By embracing our unique strengths and challenges, we can navigate the complexities of motherhood with grace and resilience.
Want to connect with Ashley?
Visit her website www.theguidingwell.com
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Share this episode with your fellow moms and encourage them to subscribe to the Mom Mentality podcast. Together, we can create a supportive community of moms who uplift and inspire each other.
Hi, I’m Jessica Campbell—mom of three, lover of family connection, and your new go-to friend for navigating the highs and lows of parenting. Let me tell you, this podcast wasn’t born out of a picture-perfect journey. It came from my life—one shaped by ADHD, mental illness, and childhood trauma.
Parenting brought all those trials front and center. But instead of letting them define me, I found a way to grow through them. I learned how to create a home filled with love, connection, and safety—not despite my challenges but because of the strength they gave me.
And now, I’m here to help you do the same.
Why I Created This Podcast
If you’re anything like me, you’ve felt the weight of guilt: Am I doing enough? Did I mess that up? It’s exhausting. But here’s the thing—you don’t have to carry that alone.
The Mom Mentality Podcast is a space to laugh at the chaos, leave the guilt behind, and focus on what really matters: building a connected, loving home where everyone feels safe.
What You’ll Get:
1. Honest, Relatable Stories
I’m not here to tell you I have it all figured out—far from it. As a mom of three, I’ve seen my share of toddler tantrums, bedtime battles, and epic messes. This podcast is a place where we talk about it all—the good, the bad, and the downright hilarious.
I’m not here to tell you I have it all figured out—far from it. As a mom of three, I’ve seen my share of toddler tantrums, bedtime battles, and epic messes. This podcast is a place where we talk about it all—the good, the bad, and the downright hilarious.
2. Practical Tips for Real LifeParenting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up. Each episode is packed with tools you can actually use to strengthen 
your connection with your kids. From navigating big feelings to managing your own, we’re keeping it simple, actionable, and doable—because who has time for anything else?
3. A Judgment-Free Zone
This isn’t about fixing your kids or being the “perfect” mom. It’s about creating relationships that thrive—even on the tough days.
This isn’t about fixing your kids or being the “perfect” mom. It’s about creating relationships that thrive—even on the tough days.
Why You’ll Love It
Because you deserve a home that feels like a sanctuary, where guilt is replaced with growth and connection is the foundation. Whether you’re managing ADHD, healing from childhood trauma, or just trying to keep it together during the fifth snack request of the day, you’re welcome here.
Let’s Start This Journey Together
So, grab your coffee (or tea… or whatever’s in that travel mug you’ve been carrying around) and join me for the Mom Mentality Podcast. Together, we’ll laugh, learn, and build homes where love and connection come first.
You’ve got this, mama—and I’m here to remind you of it.
Subscribe now, and let’s transform the way we parent—one perfectly imperfect moment at a time.
