I never imagined that after approximately 15 years in the education field, I would transition into a completely new career. But I’ve always been a dreamer and a goal chaser, and I want to share practical ways to follow your dreams, even when life as a busy mom feels overwhelming.
Do you have new passions or goals stirring in your heart? Have people told you that you’re too old to chase your dreams, or that it’s impossible once you have children?
I’m here to remind you: it’s never too late to learn something new, to go after a goal, or to do something that makes you smile. You’re not too old. You’re not too late. And you’re certainly not selfish for wanting something that belongs only to you.
Your dreams still matter and so does your joy. If something lights you up inside, that’s reason enough to pursue it. Especially as a mom, you deserve that joy, too.
A Little Bit About Me
I’ve always loved dancing, but as a child, I never had the chance to take lessons. Once I was financially able to pay for them myself, I took salsa lessons at 27, flamenco lessons at 30, and belly dancing lessons at 32. I never intended to become a professional dancer; I just wanted to do something that lit up my heart.
At 28, I began my doctoral studies and completed them at 33. Then, I had my daughter, my biggest blessing, at 35.
Before motherhood, I poured myself into all the things I loved. But as we all know, becoming a mom shifts everything. Suddenly, our time, energy, and goals need to be reimagined. It’s hard, but it’s not impossible.
Even if it was a hard and I had moments where I struggled, I did not let that get in the way of accomplishing new goals. At 38, I transitioned into a brand-new career field. It wasn’t easy. It came with challenges, tears, and self-doubt. But I did it, on my own timeline, after careful reflection and planning. And you can too.
In my 40s, I’ve experienced both wins and struggles, and I’m still learning and growing. One major win was finally publishing the blog I had dreamed about for years. Along the way, I’ve also discovered the importance of self-care for busy moms, which helps me stay grounded while pursuing my goals. I know my 40s will bring many new opportunities and blessings.
If You’re Feeling Unfulfilled, You’re Not Alone
I’ve met so many working moms who feel stuck, unfulfilled in their careers, or unsure how to pursue something they’re passionate about. Some even give up on their dreams, believing it’s too late.
If that’s you, I want to share five powerful mindset shifts, and practical ways to follow your dreams, that helped me go for it.
1. You are the decision maker.
Don’t let others decide what success looks like for you. Sometimes, people who haven’t chased their own dreams will try to talk you out of yours. That’s often their fear talking, not your truth.
Learn to spot the difference between constructive feedback and discouraging negativity. Constructive criticism helps you grow. Negativity makes you doubt yourself.
When I told people about my career change, some were excited. Others doubted I could do it. I used their disbelief as fuel. I stopped seeking approval and chose to do it for myself, because I believed I could.
It’s okay to want more for yourself. You can be a great mom and still chase dreams that are just for you. You don’t need everyone’s approval, only your own belief that you are worthy of trying.
2. Have a positive mindset.
I used to roll my eyes when people said, “Your mindset is everything.” But over time, I learned how true that is. Yes, setbacks happen. Plans go sideways. But what really matters is how you view failure. Ask yourself:
- Will this setback define me or teach me something?
- Can I see this as a lesson instead of a defeat?
Take a break if you need to. But then, get back up, refocus, and keep moving forward.
3. Make an action plan.
How do you achieve your goals as a busy mom? One of the most effective ways to follow your dreams is by creating an action plan, because dreams need structure. An action plan transforms a wish into a tangible goal.
- Write down your goal and place it where you can see it daily.
- Break it into weekly tasks.
- Carve out just one hour a day to work on it.
- Research, read, listen to podcasts, and immerse yourself in it.
- Stick to your schedule as best you can.
- Celebrate small wins. Every step forward counts.
Research on goal-setting and achievement shows that writing down your goals, breaking them into small steps, and reviewing progress regularly can keep you motivated and turn your intentions into real results.
4. Prioritize with intention.
Accomplishing goals often means making sacrifices, like waking up an hour earlier or skipping TV, which ties closely to time management for busy moms.
Be realistic. Don’t overload your week. Focus on small, achievable steps to avoid overwhelm.
If something isn’t working, change it. Adjust the day, time, or task. Flexibility doesn’t mean failure. It means you’re committed to finding what works for you.
5. Be a lifelong learner.
I’m a lifelong learner, always curious and seeking information that helps me grow and move closer to my goals. It’s one of the greatest gifts I’ve given myself.
Staying up to date, reading, taking courses, or simply exploring new interests can be empowering. Learning fuels both personal and professional growth.
And here’s the truth: it’s never too late to begin again, whether it’s for a new job, a creative passion, or simply something that lights you up inside.
Final Thoughts
I applaud you for having a new goal to pursue, and I encourage you to work toward it with purpose and self-compassion.
- Make an action plan and be persistent.
- It’s okay to have setbacks, just don’t stay there.
- Take it one day at a time.
- Let go of the negativity and hold onto your “why.”
You are capable. You are allowed to grow. And I’m rooting for you, but make sure you’re rooting for yourself too. Remember, there are practical ways to follow your dreams every day, even amidst a busy mom life.
Best wishes,
Mel
Reference
Rozen, M. (2023) “How Committed Are You to Your New Year Goals?”: A Quantitative Study on the Connection of Commitment and Performance with New Year Resolutions. Open Journal of Social Sciences, 11, 415-428. doi: 10.4236/jss.2023.119027.
