By Joy Lasseter
There has been a big shift in what motherhood looks like today.
Modern mothers are often dealing with stress, overwork, sleep deprivation, exhaustion, overwhelm—and babies—many times without the kind of support earlier generations had.
A Time When Mothers Were Supported
I was 8 years old when my unmarried aunt packed her small suitcase and drove down to help our family after my mother gave birth to my sister.
She cooked all the meals, washed clothes, kept the house clean, and shopped for groceries. It was also the custom for neighbors and friends to bring casseroles and cakes so new mothers didn’t have to cook. We also received delicious food gifts from friends and neighbors.
My aunt was always there—for births, illnesses, and even times of loss. She filled in the gaps wherever she was needed. She had lost two men she cared about in the war. Broken hearted, she never married. She shifted her purpose to serving others.
She was an inspiration to all of us.
What We’ve Lost in Modern Family Life
In earlier generations, extended families often lived under the same roof. Aunts, grandmothers, and other family members shared childcare duties and meal preparation, giving mothers daily support.
This was also how young women learned important life skills—cooking, homemaking, and caring for a family.
I didn’t know how to cook when I got married—and neither did my mother. We need to teach our tweens and teens early! After they have left home it is too late.
Today, families are spread far and wide. Many daughters stay where they go to college, build careers, and raise families far from home.
Gathering for holidays can require long travel. Communication is often through devices instead of face to face. And even when families are together, it’s common to see people absorbed in their phone instead of being present in the moment.
Opportunities missed!
When Motherhood Changes: The Empty Nest Transition
As family members leave to get married or follow a career, mothers experience the empty nest syndrome.
A woman goes from being deeply needed every day to wondering, what do I do now?
This is a difficult transition for many women I have talked to. But I also see something else…
An opportunity.
A chance to realize, (It is my turn now.)
We may have stuffed our dreams so deep that we have forgotten them.
Keep searching. They are still there.
Rediscovering Purpose and Passion
Now is the time to explore—try things!
Experiment with various ideas. Whether it is being a volunteer or building a business, explore it. No limitations. How does it feel?
Create new friends. Check out groups you might be interested in joining. Don’t join a group which wants to change you.
Find your tribe of women who celebrate who you are now.
Connection and community are just as important to your health as the food you eat.
Choose something that gives you purpose.
Prioritizing Your Health in This Season
And the most important awareness of all is to take great care of your precious self.
Don’t sink into depression if you are lonely. Get out and meet new people.
Don’t neglect your body by turning to bad eating habits like skipping meals or binging on carbs and sugar.
Food is not an escape from negative emotions. It is fuel to feed your amazing body so you will be strong and healthy in your golden years.
Don’t allow yourself to get overweight and lazy. These practices will shorten your life span.
Your Life Still Has Purpose
Remember, you have a goal… a mission… a purpose now—and a bucket list!
I celebrate you, sisters.
Go fulfill your dreams.
It is never too late.
About Dr. Joy
Dr. Joy Lasseter is a holistic nutritionist, professional speaker, and author. She is passionate about teaching people how to care for their incredible body through nutrition and lifestyle choices.
She presents to companies, conferences, and community groups on a variety of health topics.
👉 Visit her blog: JoyfulLivingHealthy.com
📞 Call: 360-980-1066
Knowledge is the power to change your life.
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