I was scrolling through my social media feed, and once again, there it was—another heartbreaking story of war and suffering. It pained me to see the faces of young children, their innocent eyes filled with fear and confusion, lost in a world that’s suddenly become terrifying and painful.
I couldn’t help but think of my own children. As a mom, all you want is to protect them, to make them feel safe, to shield them from any harm. The thought of my own children experiencing such terror felt unbearable.
In that moment, I couldn’t help but think—Is there something I can do? The world can feel overwhelming, and as a mom, I can’t protect every child, or end every conflict. If I can’t change the world’s pain, what can I do to create a small ripple of love and compassion in my own home?
Perhaps the answer lies in living in alignment with my values—by choosing kindness, empathy, and purpose every day. By living these values, I can spark a positive change. And maybe, if more of us did the same, we could create a kinder, safer world.
Living with kindness, purpose and heart might seem like a small thing, but it’s powerful—and it’s something that starts with each one of us.
Exploring the Values That Define Us
Values are like a compass, guiding us toward what matters most. Dr. Luana Marques, a renowned Clinical Psychologist and Harvard professor, describes values as the principles that define our path.
For many of us, our values come from family. For me, growing up in a religious family meant that faith and values were a core part of my upbringing. My parents sent us to Catholic schools and made sure we never missed church on Sundays. I remember dreading those early mornings, struggling to get out of bed for the 8 a.m. Mass.
Looking back now, I understand those mornings differently. They taught me discipline and commitment. They highlighted the importance of values like faith, respect, and kindness. My parents’ dedication to their beliefs showed me how crucial it is to live by our values, shaping who I am today.
As you journey through life, your values might evolve. After college, I was driven by ambition. I aimed to climb the corporate ladder, seeking a company that offered not just good pay but also opportunities for growth.
But then came motherhood, and my priorities changed.
Rediscovering What Grounds Us
I devoted my time to caring for my children, making sure they had all the love and support they needed. Yet, over the years, I felt increasingly unhappy. I felt like I was stuck in a deep hole, despite my efforts to care for my family and manage the household. The feeling of unfulfillment was overwhelming, and I hid my emotions, weighed down by guilt.
One quiet evening, as I reflected on my emotions, I realized that while my values had changed, some core desires remained the same. Ambition was still important to me. I wanted to find joy by pursuing my passions and honing my skills.
I’ve always been eager to learn, so I embraced my love for continuous growth. This led me to rediscover my passion for writing—a love I had set aside during the busy years of corporate life and motherhood. I created this blog to share my thoughts and experiences, hoping to make a positive impact.
I also embarked on a self-care journey, prioritizing my health and wellness. Taking time to nurture myself helped me rediscover joy and fulfillment.
Now, balancing my role as a mother with my passion for writing and learning, I feel happier and more content. Aligning with my values has transformed my life, allowing me to be the best version of myself for both my children and me.
Honoring Yourself
Living in alignment with your values is the foundation of a fulfilled life as a mother. By letting your values guide your actions, you create a life that isn’t just calmer and more balanced—but one filled with deep meaning and purpose. This journey isn’t always easy, but it’s essential for your well-being and the well-being of your family.
Living with intention and purpose allows you to model the values you hope to instill in your children, like kindness and integrity. When you show up each day as your authentic self, you’re not only protecting their hearts but also creating a home filled with love, safety, and trust.
When you honor your values, you nurture your own soul while providing your children with the best version of yourself.
Take the time to discover what truly matters to you. Let your values lead you toward a life that feels right and joyful. By honoring yourself, you’re not only creating a better life for yourself but helping build a better world for your children and future generations.