#19 Deborah and the unexpected shift

In this conversation, Deborah Graham and Deborah, the founder of DearMe, discuss the challenges and transformations that come with motherhood, particularly focusing on the concept of matrescence. They explore the transition from career-oriented life to motherhood, the struggles of postpartum experiences, and the importance of self-care. The discussion also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on work flexibility and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship for mothers. In this conversation, Deborah discusses the evolving nature of work, emphasising the importance of flexibility and autonomy in the workplace. She shares her personal journey from redundancy to finding a fulfilling job that allows her to contribute meaningfully. Deborah also introduces her app, DearMe, designed to support mothers during the postpartum period by providing a safe space for journaling and emotional processing. The conversation touches on the challenges of motherhood, particularly regarding sleep and societal expectations, and highlights the need for better support systems for women in the workforce. In this conversation, Deborah Graham discusses the complexities of motherhood, including body image, postpartum expectations, and the importance of mental health. She reflects on her personal journey and the challenges faced by new mothers, emphasizing the need for supportive resources and community. The discussion also touches on monetizing passion projects and the desire to empower women through shared experiences. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the significance of acknowledging both the struggles and joys of motherhood.TakeawaysYou have to be adaptable in motherhood.Matrescence is a significant transition similar to adolescence.Postpartum challenges can be overwhelming but are common.Finding purpose in entrepreneurship can help during motherhood.Self-care is crucial for mothers to maintain mental health.COVID-19 has changed the work landscape for mothers.Women often feel guilt about taking breaks from their children.The journey of motherhood can lead to unexpected personal growth.Networking and skills developed over the years can empower women entrepreneurs.Work-life balance is essential for well-being and productivity. Good work can be done virtually.Flexibility is more than just where you log in.Navigating career transitions can lead to fulfilling opportunities.Networking is crucial in finding the right job.The idea for DearMe came from personal experiences.Building an app requires confidence and backing yourself.Employers should support women during maternity leave.DearMe aims to provide a safe space for mothers.Sleep challenges are common in motherhood.It's important to accept the realities of parenting. Motherhood brings significant changes to body image and self-perception.It's common for mothers to mourn their pre-baby bodies.Expectations around postpartum recovery can be misleading.Creating supportive resources for new mothers is essential.Reflections on motherhood can lead to personal growth and healing.Monetizing passion projects can be challenging but necessary for sustainability.Empowering women through shared experiences fosters community.Maternal mental health is often overlooked but crucial for well-being.It's important to acknowledge that it's okay to not be okay.Future plans should include building a supportive community for mothers.Learn about DearMe app, a maternal wellbeing app built for Mums.Website www.dearme.digital⁠ Instagram @dearmeapp.officialGet a pre launch subscription of $39 ⁠https://dearme.digital/early-supporter⁠Or reach out to Deborah directly [e-mail] Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MatrescenceatworkPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on instagram and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Or find me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/matrescenceatwork/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgraham/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠