Why does it really matter to me?
Teaching a course in the emotional education of a child is part of what I do to fulfil my mission in this beautiful life.
Christmas is a time of miracles, but mums know that behind the festivities lies hard work, endless planning and a real rollercoaster of emotions. This year, I invite mums to send me anonymous voice messages with their feelings, thoughts and experiences about this time of joy, stress, anxiety, happiness, physical and emotional exhaustion.
There are no right or wrong stories or themes. But if you want some inspiration, see below.
Works and tasks
What is too much for you? Maybe requests for children's parties, candy packages, gifts? Maybe it's the fact that you have to remember all this alone?
"I feel like a driver, bank and project manager all in one. On my lunch break I have to run to decorate the kindergarten, bake gingerbread with the kids in the evening and send a card to my husband's mum."
Emotions
How do you really feel at this time? Are you experiencing joy and warmth or exhaustion and stress?
"I'm trying hard, but I feel like I'm stuck somewhere. Everyone is waiting for a miracle, but I don't feel like I can create one."
Support (or lack of it)
Do others help you, or do you shoulder the burden of the festivities?
"I bake pies, clean the bathroom and plan whether we have enough forks for all the guests, while my husband "helps" by organising the boot of the car. I don't have the energy to explain what exactly would be the most helpful thing he could do at the moment."
Inspiration and joy
If you've found a way to make this time easier and more peaceful, share it!
"This year, we've done away with the need to host a lot of guests and visit everyone. In addition, we managed to agree with the relatives that the presents will be for the children only and only jointly prepared. The festivities are about calm and warm togetherness, not a mad dash!"
I'll be waiting for a voice message from you. They will be used to shape a wider discussion about the mental and emotional strain on mums during the festive season. Your story will help other mums to feel less alone and to realise that these feelings are familiar to many of you.
To send me an anonymous voice message, click on the "Start recording" button below. You will need to give permission to access the microphone on your phone. It is important to say what you have to say In 90 seconds. I will optionally share some of the stories on social media by running an Instagram rant or a story. I promise not to include sensitive information, but by sharing your story, you agree that I can use it to publicise the campaign.
Or open this link: https://www.speakpipe.com/PEPmammaElina
