At the end of last year, I became a single mum of a cheeky two-year-old boy (character-building exercise number one). I decided to defer my grad offer, setting out on creating a well-refined weekly routine and establishing good habits so that I could tackle 2026 head on (character-building exercise number two). However, this year has been one of character-building in ways I never expected.

A few months ago, my son was diagnosed with a genetic disorder (character-building capacity reached). At first, I was relieved, having some answers to my sons ongoing health issues, but then came the anger, exhaustion and overwhelming anxiety… This was NOT part of the plan!

Too proud, I tried to be super mum, managing medical appointments, a new special diet for my son (this unlocked a new level of picky eating in toddlerhood), separation, and my career all by myself. My ‘write and release’ journaling became my new best friend.

Write and release journaling is a stress-relief exercise that involves writing down everything that’s bothering you and then throwing the piece of paper away. By transferring your thoughts onto paper, the exercise allows you to externalise them, making it easier to process and release negative emotions. Whilst this often cleared my ‘mental clutter’ and helped me refocus, I quickly found myself feeling physically and emotionally exhausted. I realised I needed my village – not to raise my son, but to navigate life.

When, at times, juggling my professional development and caring for my son seems impossible, my colleagues support me.

When, at times, looking after mine and my son’s physical health seems impossible when I feel time-poor and tired, my friends support me.

When, at times, being optimistic and motivated during periods of poor mental health seems impossible, my psychologist (through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)) supports me.

When, at times, showing up as a good mum when I am exhausted seems impossible, my son reminds me to find joy in the little things.

If you feel like you don’t know where to start, how to juggle the curveballs of life, or how to navigate a character-building exercise, remember you have a village.

As someone who once was too proud to ask for help, I encourage you to take the first step and turn to someone in your village for support. And if you happen to feel alone or unsure of who to turn to for help, I would love to be a part of your village.