Word Confetti: Unconventional Stress Relief For Therapist Moms
It’s Just Word Confetti!
In a world obsessed with keeping up with the Kardashians and following new trends, the pressure to conform to conventional norms can be maddening. If you've ever felt the weight of societal expectations bearing down on you, telling you to say this and look like that, you're not alone.
Today’s blog post is not about conforming; it's about embracing an unconventional and liberating approach to stress relief that involves a little more freedom of expression — and, yes, a lot of explicit language. If you’re up for some creative language, settle in and keep reading.
Let’s explore a unique perspective on well-being, one that's not afraid to say what needs to be said and take a different path to finding your place in a world that feels like it’s getting harder and harder to exist in. This isn't a rebellion against the norm; it's a journey towards embracing the unfiltered you.
Struggling with Identity as a Therapist Mom:
The journey of being a Therapist Mom is marked by the challenge of preserving one's identity amidst societal and professional expectations. (Yes, one might argue professional expectations are actually ethics. But are they? For this blog post they are NOT. We’ll tackle that another day.)
(*Disclaimer: Do not mistake my terminology: expectations and norms are in no way meant to be used in place of ethics. Unless I specifically state the word ethics, I’m not speaking of the ethical standards of our licensing boards.)
The relentless shifts in expectations and norms can create a profound struggle for any TheraMama no matter how rooted in her confidence she might be. This leaves you feeling external pressures that threaten to overshadow the essence of who you are as a person, not simply as a Therapist and Mom. This constant demand to conform, whether in professional or maternal roles, can lead to feelings of frustration and inadequacy.
Coping with Social Expectations:
The canvas of societal expectations often outlines a rigid picture of what a "successful" and "fulfilled" Therapist Mom should embody. This narrow and often unrealistic image can bring about a sense of isolation for those who deviate from these standards, sparking feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. The weight of conforming to these social expectations becomes a significant source of stress, acting as a barrier that hinders Therapist Moms from fully embracing and navigating their distinctive paths to building the business of their dreams. This places personal fulfillment and well-being on hold for many.
Language as a Stress Reliever:
Amidst the pressures of societal expectations, some individuals find solace in a less conventional stress-relief method: explicit language. The act of liberally expressing frustration through strong language can serve as a cathartic release, providing a sense of empowerment. This unconventional approach challenges the notion that stress relief must fit a specific mold, encouraging individuals to explore alternative methods that resonate with their authentic selves.
These pain points lay the groundwork for a discussion on embracing an unfiltered approach to well-being that doesn't shy away from saying "F*** it" to the traditional norms.
Who am I?
Hi! I’m MacKenzie, your Self-Care Mompanion. I’m a Therapist and Mom, too. Over the past several years I’ve been working hard to embrace who I am as a Therapist and Mom. I’ve been challenging some of the societal norms of each role. I've discovered that, for some of us, following the herd isn’t quite the sanctuary it's made out to be. Instead, there's a different kind of “therapy” that involves letting out a good, hearty "F***!" every now and then and I’m here for it!
Stay tuned to discover how embracing an unfiltered approach to stress relief has not only empowered me but also provided me with a thriving therapy practice.
Embracing Unconventional Stress Relief
Why “Conventional” Isn't for Everyone
In a world fixated on “fitting in”, it's essential to acknowledge that one size doesn't fit all. Traditional ways of doing things can feel confining, pushing individuals into molds that don't align with their unique preferences and personalities. The stress of conforming to these norms can become counterproductive, hindering overall well-being rather than enhancing it.
Finding Your Outlet
For those who resonate with the notion that normal just isn't their sanctuary, there's an alternative path—one that involves embracing unconventional stress relief. This journey is about discovering personal outlets that align with your authentic self. From creative swearing coloring books to unorthodox expressions of frustration (rage rooms!), the key is finding what resonates with you on a deep and personal level.
Strategies for Navigating Social Expectations
Embracing Individuality Amidst Social Norms: In a world that insists on conformity more each day, embracing your individuality becomes a powerful strategy. Recognizing that societal expectations may not align with the diverse realities of Therapist Moms is crucial. By acknowledging and celebrating your unique qualities, you empower yourself to navigate social expectations without compromising your authenticity.
Building a Supportive Community:
Navigating social expectations is less daunting when you have a supportive community by your side. Seek out like-minded individuals who understand the intricacies of being a Therapist Mom. Establishing connections with those who share similar challenges creates a safe space to discuss experiences, exchange advice, and collectively challenge societal norms. A supportive community becomes a source of strength, reminding you that you're not alone in this journey and your individuality is celebrated.
Setting Boundaries with External Pressures: It's essential to establish and maintain boundaries to protect your identity. As a Therapist Mom, external pressures can be relentless, demanding more than you're willing to give. Setting clear boundaries helps manage these expectations, allowing you to define your professional and personal spaces on your terms. This strategy empowers you to prioritize your well-being and preserve your identity regardless of what the world wants.
Cultivating Self-Compassion: Navigating social expectations can be emotionally taxing, leading to moments of self-doubt. Cultivating self-compassion is a vital strategy in this journey. Understand that perfection is an unrealistic standard and it's okay to acknowledge imperfections. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with kindness, embracing mistakes as part of the learning process, and recognizing your worth beyond societal expectations.
Reframing Perspectives on Success: Challenge conventional notions of success by reframing your perspective. As a Therapist Mom, your success may not always align with societal benchmarks. Define success on your terms, considering the balance between your professional and personal life that brings you genuine fulfillment. By reshaping your definition of success, you reclaim agency over your narrative and free yourself from the constraints of societal expectations.
In navigating the complex landscape of social expectations, these strategies serve as pillars of support for you as Therapist Moms. Embrace your individuality, foster a supportive community, set boundaries, cultivate self-compassion, and redefine success on your own terms. Through these intentional actions, you empower yourself to navigate societal expectations while maintaining the authenticity and resilience that define your unique journey as a therapist mom.
What Does It All Mean?
As we reflect on the points discussed earlier—stress over maintaining your individuality as a Therapist Mom, societal expectations, and the liberating power of explicit language—we see a common thread. Embracing the unfiltered you is about rejecting the societal pressure to conform and finding alternative paths to well-being that resonate with your authentic self, not just as a Therapist, but also as a Mom.
As we conclude this exploration, remember that well-being is a personal journey, and there's a space for everyone. By breaking down social expectations and finding your tribe, you're not just embracing the unfiltered you—you're paving the way for others to do the same. It's time to redefine what it means to be well and truly embrace the unique path that leads to who you are meant to be.
I’d love to hear how you’re embracing your true self and living the life and building the business you want. How do you see things changing? Email me and let me know!
Here's how you can work with me:
Self-Reflection: Begin by reflecting on your own experience, expectations and self-care. How are those all impacting each other? Check out Journey to Self-Care Journaling Workbook to get started.
Schedule a Consultation: Reach out for a consultation where we can discuss your specific challenges and goals.
Customized Strategies: Together, we'll develop personalized strategies to help you let go of perfectionism, find balance and embrace the imperfections that make motherhood unique.
If you’re like me and you enjoy word confetti, check out this slightly different perspective from my friend, Karissa, over at Good Woman Therapy.
