48. My Top 5 Lessons from Navigating Big Change and Reinvention

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

#Fitness #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Mental Health #Benita Bensch #Motherhood #Matrescence #Coaching #Mother #Parenting #Mum #Mindset #Maternal #Support

27:58

Chris Nowinski is a former football player at Harvard University and professional wrestler with WWE, World Wrestling Entertainment. After enduring a career-ending head injury, Chris has dedicated his professional life to serving patients and families affected by brain trauma, particularly Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that develops after repeated head injuries. Jay and Chris discuss the state of head injuries in American athletics, the difference between advocating for head safety at youth and professional levels, Chris’ newest research, and much more. Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro (00:50) changes in the culture around concussions in the past two decades (02:39) padded helmet technology (03:55) concussion reporting in the NFL (10:35) Chris’ career path and concussion history (14:52) connecting with activists who haven’t themselves suffered a traumatic brain injury (17:42) SHAAKE - a new sign to identify concussions (20:53) Unions can help players advocate for safety policies (23:10) final thoughts and goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/…

about a year ago 29:00

MP3•एपिसोड होम

As I reflect on this journey of shifting landscapes, I want to share with you the top five lessons I’ve learned about navigating big change, the art of surrender and how reinvention has shaped me. Perhaps these will offer some guidance or comfort if you too find yourself swirling in the waves of life's transitions.
We'll explore:

1. Progress Over Perfection
2. Honour and Communicate Your Needs
3. Comparison is the Thief of Joy
4. A Shift in Energy is Growth
5. Honour What You Love
Navigating big changes in life can be daunting, but it’s within these shifts that we find opportunities for reinvention and self-discovery. My hope is that you too, will find the courage to step forward, surrender to the flow and embrace change with a reinvigorated spirit.
Remember, the magic lies not in having everything perfectly aligned, but in the beautiful journey of becoming.

Facebook Group: Support for Women in Family Farming: Succession & Other Challenges

Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me

Subscribe: Join my mailing list

Website: http://www.benitabensch.com

Freebie: Affirmation Email Series

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50 एपिसोडस

48. My Top 5 Lessons from Navigating Big Change and Reinvention

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

published about a year ago

साझा करें

MP3•एपिसोड होम

Facebook Group: Support for Women in Family Farming: Succession & Other Challenges

Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com
Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me

Subscribe: Join my mailing list

Website: http://www.benitabensch.com

Freebie: Affirmation Email Series

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch

50 एपिसोडस

#Fitness #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Mental Health #Benita Bensch #Motherhood #Matrescence #Coaching #Mother #Parenting #Mum #Mindset #Maternal #Support

सभी एपिसोड

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

1
50. Blending Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 37:44

6 days ago37:44

37:44

For this, my 50th episode, I'm sharing my lessons on blending motherhood and entrepreneurship. From the start of TTC (trying to conceive), going through IVF, the newborn and toddler days and now the school years, motherhood and business have gone hand-in-hand for me. This journey has shaped me in ways I never expected, teaching me lessons that go far beyond business strategies or parenting techniques. I’d love to share with you some of the insights I’ve gained from navigating this blend (not balance) of motherhood and entrepreneurship over the years. 1. Know Your Values - Initially, I thought I needed to compartmentalise these roles, but I've learned that when your values are clear, decisions flow more naturally. It's about recognising what truly matters and letting that guide your choices, even if they seem conflicted. 2. Understanding Different Energies - Work often provides immediate satisfaction and clear outcomes, while motherhood is more nuanced and complex. Acknowledging this difference has helped me approach each role with more awareness and intention. 3. Embracing Support - One of the most profound lessons for me has been understanding that seeking support isn't a sign of weakness - it's essential for growth. This realisation didn't come easily, but it's transformed how I approach both roles. 4. Honouring Multiple Passions - Rather than seeing this as a lack of focus, I've learned to embrace it as a strength that brings depth to both my parenting and entrepreneurial endeavours. 5. Listening to Your Body - The physical demands of motherhood and business are real. Learning to recognise and respect our body's signals isn't just beneficial - it's crucial. 6. Finding Natural Rhythms - It's not about forcing a perfect schedule, but rather finding flows that honour everyone's needs while moving your business forward. 7. Leading with Strengths - The skills we develop as mothers often enhance our business capabilities, and vice versa. It's about acknowledging these strengths and allowing them to serve us in both areas. 8. Building Meaningful Support Networks - The importance of having people who understand this journey cannot be overstated. 9. Let Go of Mum Guilt - The weight of mum guilt can be particularly heavy when building a business. Let it go, but also lean in and listen to what it’s saying. 10. Embracing Creative Evolution - Creativity flows differently in different seasons of life. I'd love to hear about your experiences - what lessons have you learned along the way? Episodes Mentioned: 11. Karen Brook On Consciously Creating, And Ditching Mum Guilt 39. How to Make Time for Creativity Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

1
49. What I'm Learning Raising Boys 28:20

21 days ago28:20

28:20

I was asked recently what it's like raising four boys. It definitely got me thinking. They’re about to celebrate their birthdays in the next six weeks – the twins will turn nine, our eldest is almost 11, and our youngest will be seven. And while there’s a bit of rough-and-tumble going on that usually comes with the territory, raising sons has been an eye-opening experience and completely different to what I expected. Today, I’m sharing the lessons I’ve learnt, ways I’ve adapted to the unexpected and what I hope to be instilling in my boys as they grow. I'll take you through my experiences of: - Releasing expectations - Nurturing individuality - Understanding physical play - The power of attention - Awareness of body image - The need for good role models - Fostering emotional language - Challenging gender norms These lessons really just skim the surface. I’m not perfect, and I don’t have all the answers. But I'm continuously learning, and eager to hear from you too. What are your experiences? Please drop me a message or an email – I’d love to discuss the incredible journey of raising boys with you! Facebook Group: Support for Women in Family Farming: Succession & Other Challenges Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

1
48. My Top 5 Lessons from Navigating Big Change and Reinvention 29:00

5 weeks ago29:00

29:00

As we step into 2025, my life has been swirling with change – not just with a new home, but with a shift in my career as well. Recently, my family and I embarked on a significant move that upended our surroundings and challenged us to settle into a new rhythm. Alongside the chaos of relocating, I’ve also closed a chapter as an accountability coach with the Farm Owners Academy, leaving me with a clean slate to explore new ventures. As I reflect on this journey of shifting landscapes, I want to share with you the top five lessons I’ve learned about navigating big change, the art of surrender and how reinvention has shaped me. Perhaps these will offer some guidance or comfort if you too find yourself swirling in the waves of life's transitions. We'll explore: 1. Progress Over Perfection 2. Honour and Communicate Your Needs 3. Comparison is the Thief of Joy 4. A Shift in Energy is Growth 5. Honour What You Love Navigating big changes in life can be daunting, but it’s within these shifts that we find opportunities for reinvention and self-discovery. My hope is that you too, will find the courage to step forward, surrender to the flow and embrace change with a reinvigorated spirit. Remember, the magic lies not in having everything perfectly aligned, but in the beautiful journey of becoming. Facebook Group: Support for Women in Family Farming: Succession & Other Challenges Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

1
47. School Holiday Survival And 2025 Goal Setting 22:21

7 weeks ago22:21

22:21

I find myself in the thick of school holidays and I imagine many of you, much like myself, are navigating the highs and lows that accompany this somewhat haphazard time of year. Whether you have kids at home from primary school, kindy, daycare, or even boarding school, the change in routine can feel both liberating and overwhelming. Some days, it feels like we’re swimming in flexibility and fun, and other days, it feels as if our nerves are hanging by a thread. It’s perfectly natural to experience a spectrum of feelings during the holidays. Some parents cherish every moment, while others find it a challenge—or perhaps you’re like me, somewhere in the middle. In this episode I take you through a few strategies that have helped me manage the holiday hustle with my sanity intact. I think it’s important to remind yourself during this time that every parent’s journey through the holidays is unique. Allow yourself the grace to navigate these times in a way that best suits you and your family. If you feel like you need additional support to set your goals for 2025, I’ve created a comprehensive workbook available to you—just reach out via social media or email, and I’ll be glad to send it over. Sending you love and wishes for beautiful, joyous holiday moments with your little ones. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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46. My Goals For 2025 18:47

9 weeks ago18:47

18:47

As we usher in 2025, I find myself deeply reflective and excited about the year ahead. Whether you celebrated New Year's Eve by turning in early or dancing the night away, I hope your festivities were wonderful. I’m writing this with a sense of fresh beginnings and anticipation, and I wanted to share some of the goals I've set for this year. Embracing New Beginnings As many of you know from previous episodes, we have embarked on a huge transition. After moving from the border town of Goondiwindi in Queensland to our new home in the Echuca Moama region, we are ready to begin this exciting new chapter. Personal Growth and Stability This year, I am committed to slowing down and fostering stability within our family. It's been a whirlwind past few years, filled with big decisions and changes, from leaving our family farm to moving towns and schools. My aim in 2025 is to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey. Additionally, I am focusing on health and well-being. I've encountered some unexpected health challenges in the past 18 months, which have served as a reminder to care for my body and mind. Slowing down not only feels essential but vital for maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Work and Play My approach to work is undergoing a transformation in 2025. I've temporarily paused my coaching programs, desiring the headspace to focus on our move and settling in. Yet, I'm thrilled about leaning into my passion for writing in 2025. I plan to make writing my primary focus, while dedicating, I think at this stage, approx. one day a week to coaching and consulting. I'm especially excited about working on my upcoming non-fiction book centred around motherhood, and embarking on a children's book series as well. The Road Ahead While my goals for 2025 might seem loosely defined, they’re driven by an intention to live slower and more intentionally. I’m eager to witness what life unfolds when I maintain a high vibration and clarity in my thoughts and actions. I invite you to join me in reflecting on your own ambitions for the year. What are your goals for 2025? Is there a word that encapsulates your hopes and intentions? Listen in to find out what mine is! Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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45. Living In A Rural Town vs On The Farm 23:29

11 weeks ago23:29

23:29

This episode is inspired by our family's significant move from our beloved farm near Moonie to the lively border town of Goondiwindi, and my reflections on living in a rural town compared to life on the farm. After spending decades mainly on the land and out of town, this transition brought its share of revelations, and I'm eager to share the highs and lows. When we decided in 2022 to live in town during the school terms of 2023, it meant embracing a new chapter. Goondiwindi became our home base, offering immediate access to amenities that were previously the cause of extensive planning and travel from our farm 130km away. The ease of simply being able to pick up a fresh loaf of bread, grab a coffee, or pick up groceries felt like a luxury. This convenience has been a significant pro of town life—the time saved from driving alone was a game-changer. And then we made the move to living in town full time during 2024. We became "townies!" One of my favourite aspects of residing in town has been the community connection. Living closer to others means there's more opportunity for spontaneous coffee meet-ups and being part of events that enrich our social circle. However, town living isn’t without its downsides. The bustling environment can sometimes feel constrictive, especially after enjoying the expansive freedom of farm life. Several challenges in our family arose from feeling “caged in” due to smaller living spaces and constant noise. As I reflect on this past year of living in town, I've also acknowledged some lifestyle changes. It’s been challenging to juggle the faster-paced conveniences of town life while longing for the hands-on, active lifestyle that the farm provided. I hope this reflection resonates with you, especially if you're contemplating a similar transition or just curious about the rural versus town dynamic. Our experiences, though personal, might offer insight or comfort as you navigate your own journey. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

1
44. Your Label, Your Role: In Or Out of Family Farming 18:48

13 weeks ago18:48

18:48

In this episode I’m talking about a topic that I know many of my rural and regional listeners who are involved in farming businesses will resonate with. That said, I think there's a good message in here for everyone as we discuss the labels we put on ourselves and finding our place in the stage of life we’re in. In this conversation, I’ll explore taking a stand for what we want for our lives and making conscious choices that see it come to pass. I encourage each of you to pause and reflect on the labels you assimilate. Whether it's "farmer", "farmer's wife", "stay-at-home mum", or any number of titles we've been given or have taken on ourselves, these labels shape perceptions. They affect how we view ourselves, how others perceive us, and ultimately, how we show up in various facets of our lives. You may find yourself in roles traditionally defined by others, but remember, you do have a choice. It’s entirely okay to express a desire to pivot away from roles that do not align with your interests or strengths. In all this, the most crucial thing is to own your role or position. If you're content with being a "farmer's wife," embrace it. If you prefer to forge an identity beyond, say, "just a mum", then proudly step into what resonates with the essence of who you are. Be deliberate and conscious in how you define and represent yourself. If the environment you are in doesn’t support your vision or make you feel valued, consider whether it is the right one for you. I'd love to hear your thoughts, experiences, and welcome you into my Facebook community for women navigating these very issues. Let's support each other in becoming the authors of our own stories, with love, compassion and a shared determination to live authentically. Facebook Group: Support for Women in Family Farming: Succession & Other Challenges Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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43. Knowing Your Mental Health Red Flags 20:47

15 weeks ago20:47

20:47

We talk a lot about mental health these days which I’m so grateful for. It’s brilliant that we as a society are more aware of this topic and it’s no longer taboo to talk openly about things like anxiety and depression. While I believe these conversations are extremely valuable, we often place the focus on mental illness as opposed to mental health itself. I’d like to open the discussion on how to recognise the mental health red flags so we can catch ourselves and take action before we spiral downward. I recently had a conversation with my dear friend Mandy and we brainstormed the idea of implementing a traffic light system to identify our mental states. The green light represents everything going well, orange indicates that things are beginning to slip, and the red light signifies waving flags, urging immediate action. One resource I've turned to repeatedly is the Beyond Blue website. One page in particular offers a fantastic description of the mental health continuum, showing that mental health isn't black and white. Picture it as a timeline with stages ranging from healthy to crisis, allowing for a personalised understanding of your mental health journey. Green Light - Healthy: In this stage, we operate smoothly. We think clearly, feel capable, and maintain positive connections and routines. Orange Light - Unsettled: We might feel irritable or have trouble concentrating in this stage. The key is to acknowledge these feelings early, especially as we approach high-stress periods like the busy holiday season. Red Light - Struggling: When you’re in the red zone, emotions might include distress, hopelessness or brain fog. At this point, you might feel like you need professional support from a counsellor, psychologist, coach or trusted friend. Because we’re all different, your green, orange and red lights will look different to someone else. For me, being overly stressed or losing touch with my intuition is a sign that I’m in the orange zone. Spiraling negative thoughts, not wanting to take calls or go out at all indicate more severe struggles in the red zone. Creating lists of what helps during each phase is a proactive step you can take. Maybe going for a walk, calling a friend or taking a long bath are things that help draw you back to feeling yourself. Remember, there's no shame in asking for help. Vulnerability not only liberates you but also grants others permission to share their struggles too. You are worthy of feeling good and are a valuable part of our world. Beyond Blue Website Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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42. Your Level Of Uncomfortable Matters 18:00

17 weeks ago18:00

18:00

Moving away from the familiar is generally very uncomfortable. As someone who has experienced a lifetime of perfectionism and people pleasing, I know just how hard it is to let go of control and branch out into something beyond my comfort zone. But what if discomfort is actually the best thing for us? At the time of recording this, I found myself reflecting on the story of Australian man Nedd Brockmann, who embarked on what he called 'Nedd's Uncomfortable Challenge' and completed it. He ran an astounding 1,000 miles around Sydney Olympic Park, aiming to set a new record in 10 days. Although he completed it in 12 days, his determination and the $3 million + raised for charity speak volumes about the strength that comes with embracing discomfort. Witnessing this has made me ponder: how could someone put themselves through such pain and so many injuries when they didn’t have to? What's required to have that level of mental and physical toughness, and what was his why? It got me wondering about my own life and the ways in which I push myself (or fail) to get uncomfortable. And what it means to navigate our own discomforts, particularly as mothers? Today, we're exploring: - Bridging Discomfort and Motherhood - Understanding Our Discomforts - My Uncomfortable: Embracing a Slower Pace - Subtle Shifts and the Power of No - Crafting Our Unique Journeys Here’s the lesson I hope to impart: your uncomfortableness, however it manifests, is just as valid and transformative as running a thousand miles. It's unique to you. Whether it's scaling unprecedented heights or simply learning to be gentler on ourselves as parents, it’s crucial to embrace our journey authentically and with compassion. And perhaps, in doing so, we’ll find our own version of Nedd’s courage—a courage to face and champion our personal challenges with everything we’ve got. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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41. Let's Talk About The Midlife Unraveling 20:20

19 weeks ago20:20

20:20

I’ve been feeling different in the past few years. There has been one internal shift, big question and hard decision after another to contend with. I’m thinking more deeply about what I want to do with my life, and who I want to surround myself with. I’m referring to the midlife unravelling. Notice how I specifically didn’t use the term 'midlife crisis'? That’s because, for many of us, the experience of reaching our 40s and beyond is less about crisis and more about unravelling—a gentle peeling back of the layers we've built over the years. The term 'midlife crisis' often carries a negative connotation, suggesting disarray and upheaval. But what if we view it through a different lens? To me, the term 'unravelling' seems to better capture this phase—it's an inevitable shedding of old defences and identities that no longer serve us, and an invitation to step into our true selves. One of the gifts of these midlife years is the wisdom to recognise that we have a choice—we can rethink, redefine, and reimagine what our futures holds. Yes, it's an ongoing work in progress with no definite answers, but isn’t that liberating in its own way? Here's what I've settled on: I want to grow continuously and cherish each version of myself. This time isn't just about enduring change but embracing it with open arms and an open heart. So, if you're also navigating this midlife unravelling, remember, you're not alone. This evolution is an opportunity for transformation, and within it lies the potential for profound personal growth. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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40. Letting Go: Tips to Release What Holds You Back 15:45

21 weeks ago15:45

15:45

Sometimes, we prefer to stay in our suffering. The pain we’re familiar with can be a lot less scary than the unknown - which potentially comes with rejection, failure or even success (yes, that can be scary too!) This could be relationships, habits, friendships, old beliefs… and sometimes they’re paralysing to let go of, even when we know in our hearts that we should. So how do we find the courage to release what holds us back? Today, I’m sharing with you five different tips that I came up with that will support you in the letting go journey and making changes you need to get into alignment with your true self. I’ll take you through how to: 1. Use Past Evidence 2. Follow Your Feelings and Intuition 3. Get Clear on Your Desires 4. Be Courageous 5. Find Power in Letting Go Letting go is rarely instant. It’s a gradual process that might require revisiting over and over, especially with significant changes like ending a long-term relationship or changing careers. However, equipped with the right mindset and these tips, you can navigate through the process of letting go with grace and self-assurance. I understand that there's a big spectrum of things that you might be letting go of, but remember: trusting yourself and your inner knowing, even when it’s outside your comfort zone, will only lead to healing and growth. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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39. How to Make Time for Creativity 23:50

23 weeks ago23:50

23:50

A lot of us would never call ourselves creative. We think that if we can’t paint, write or draw, then we’re definitely not creative. That was me for many years. At a young age, I decided that because I was the academic one in the family and not good at art like my sister, I wasn’t and never would be creative. Thankfully, I no longer believe this lie. I now recognise the unique ways in which I create and that if I put myself in a box, I’ll miss out on all the wonderful experiences I could have. We are all innately creative beings, and there are no rules around what is creative and what is not. The beauty of creativity lies in its boundless nature; it's whatever we wish to manifest. If you’re struggling to recognise your own creativity or carve out time for self-expression, then this episode is for you. I ask you to consider what self expression looks like in your world. It doesn't have to be any of those things that are traditionally seen as ‘artistic’. It's any sort of thing that makes you feel good and more like you. And while I know time is precious and not always easy to find, I encourage you to prioritise your creativity as an important appointment. Limit distractions and give yourself permission to close the door and shut out the world for a moment. Or integrate creativity into your daily routines, whatever that looks like for you. Making time for creativity is not just about producing art; it’s about enhancing our lives, nurturing our souls and expressing who we truly are. Remember, your creative journey is unique to you, and there’s no right or wrong way to embark on it. Embrace your creativity and let it flourish. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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38. My Experience With Antidepressants 21:25

25 weeks ago21:25

21:25

Life comes with its fair share of ups and downs, but there are moments when the downs can feel overwhelming - insurmountable even. Personally, I’ve had a few episodes of poor mental health in my lifetime - patches of anxiety and depression that I’ve learnt how to manage. However, in 2022, I got to my lowest point with it, even experiencing symptoms of psychosis. When I first considered going on antidepressants during this time, it felt like a big, daunting step. And though I would encourage anyone else in my life to not feel shame, the idea of going on antidepressants still made me nervous. Today, I want to shine a light on this topic so that anyone feeling shame around taking medication can begin to shed that feeling and know they’re not alone. I’m sharing my personal experience with antidepressants, both while taking them and after deciding to come off the medication. While on antidepressants, I actually found that I could begin to reclaim parts of my life that had felt lost to depression. I had more energy, more clarity and slowly but surely, more hope. Yet, as effective as they were, I always knew that I didn’t want to be on medication forever if I could help it. After a period of stability and having learnt tools to manage my mental health, I decided to come off the antidepressants completely, without tapering the dose. It’s been intense: agitation, fatigue, difficulty sleeping - and a lot of crying. I’ve even gotten to the point of being unable to parent. Yet, I have hope. My research shows these are common symptoms, and I’m looking forward to the light at the end of the tunnel. Of course, there are times I question myself: What if my symptoms return? What if I’m unable to cope? I may go back on them, and I know that’s totally okay. If you are currently on antidepressants, know that you are not alone. There’s no shame in taking medication, whether it’s for a short period or for the rest of your life. Each person’s experience with mental health is unique, and so too are the tools they use to navigate it. I hope that sharing my experience can offer some insight and comfort if you are struggling. I know that as we continue to support one another and share our stories, we can together dismantle the stigmas and shame surrounding mental health. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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37. Daring To Set Boundaries 25:15

27 weeks ago25:15

25:15

Do you ever feel like a doormat? You spend all day pouring out love, time and energy into meeting everyone else’s needs and by the end of the day, you feel like you’ve been walked all over. Your needs go unnoticed. Your needs don’t matter. It’s no wonder so many of us struggle with feelings of resentment and anger. A lot of the time, it all comes down to a matter of boundaries. For many women, boundaries is an uncomfortable topic but it’s also a really important one. A huge breakthrough for me in this area was learning that it's not just okay, but vitally important for my well-being to meet my own needs by putting boundaries in place. Boundaries are lines we draw to protect ourselves and our children, ensuring our physical, emotional, and mental safety. They are meant to protect your time, energy, and what you give away and you are worthy of them. Your worth is inherent and you don't need to prove your worth to anyone. A boundary ensures your needs are met because unmet needs can have serious ramifications. Physical and Emotional Boundaries There are physical boundaries we can put in place, but there are also emotional ones that protect us. If you feel like you’re getting beyond your window of tolerance, setting a boundary will help you feel safe and regulate your nervous system. Your boundaries don’t require anyone’s sign-off. Other people may not understand and it may even challenge them, but you can't take care of someone else's feelings while setting your boundaries. People-Pleasing and Perfectionism It can feel uncomfortable to set boundaries, especially for people pleasers or perfectionists. Brene Brown says, "Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others." The point of a boundary is to take care of yourself. Boundaries require practice; they are not walls and they can change. It's about deepening your awareness of what feels good in the moment and continually reevaluating. Boundaries with your partner: Let’s say your partner wants to discuss business right when you're about to go to bed. You’re tired and not in the right frame of mind. A good boundary could be, "Darling, I know this is important, but can we discuss it in the morning when I'm more alert?" Boundaries with your children: Kids love to push boundaries and it’s your prerogative to keep those boundaries firm or to be flexible. Whether you choose to stay firm on your boundaries, or go against them, make this a conscious choice. Boundaries for personal time: Simple things like going to the toilet or taking a shower in peace can be crucial boundaries. Your personal space is important and setting clear boundaries will not only help you, but also model this to your children too. Start noticing as you go about your day what you need and when you start to feel pushed beyond your limits. Understanding these sensations will help you recognise when a boundary is necessary. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.com Let’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch…

ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

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36. How And Why I Gave Up Wine O'Clock 20:04

29 weeks ago20:04