One day during a session with my therapist I said, “It’s like I’m a light on a dimmer. I’m not completely dark, but I’m dimmed and it’s hard to see things brightly.” I was a mom to a toddler and infant and was experiencing a profound and relentless disconnection from myself. I loved my family. I loved the life I had created. I was successful, had purpose, and had joy. Yet I was also sad and mourning a version of myself that was no longer allowed to exist. I was, in many ways, a stranger to myself and longed to reclaim my essence - who I was outside of “mom.”

Aging is not just about the physical transformation; it's a mental and emotional journey towards accepting ourselves fully. Let’s celebrate our diverse journeys with aging, recognizing that while the path is universal, each experience is unique. Remember, you're gorgeous - don't let yourself tell you otherwise.

The next time you're feeling overwhelmed, remember the self-compassion break. It's a moment of kindness and understanding that you owe to yourself.

The 5 F's for Successful Relationships remind us that successful relationships are built on a foundation of open communication, laughter, friendship, shared values, and intimacy. It's about embracing both the sweet and sour moments and growing together.