Mama of the month: Rachel Goldman
Posted on August 20 2019
Name: Rachel Goldman
Mom To: Dylan 9 months old
What are you currently working on?
What am I not currently working on?! I feel like being self-employed there is always a lot going on. I am a clinical psychologist and have a private practice where I see clients related to health behavior change to help them live happier and healthier lives. I also do corporate wellness and often give professional presentations to other healthcare providers related to the work that I do. Most recently I have been brainstorming how I can incorporate my new mom life and my profession to do more for moms and the community. More to come on that....
How have things changed for you since becoming a Mama ?
It's interesting because I think everything has changed since becoming a mama, but at the same time, not much has changed. I think it is all about perspective, our goals, and how we define things. Of course my life has changed in the sense that my priorities have shifted and Dylan is my number one priority. My responsibilities have of course changed, which leads to a change in how I spend my time, and less time to do work, but I havent let that stop me from doing what I want to do (both personally and professionally). I am a believer in making it work if you want to, so I have found ways to not only balance my mom and work life, but to also blend them. On a more personal note and how I have changed as an individual, Dylan has taught me to be more patient, to slow down, and to say no to things that I really dont care to do.
How do you take care of yourself outside of motherhood?
I often speak about self-care in my presentations, with my clients, on panels, etc. I think this is so important. I believe in what I call a "healthy selfishness" which is the idea that we must be selfish when it comes to us and our health, which may be a difficult concept when it comes to being a mom, but we cant be physically or emotionally healthy for anyone else if we are not taking care of ourselves. My self-care is to make sure that I participate in the health behaviors that I encourage my clients to do. Having a daily routine which includes relaxation techniques, hydration, movement, proper sleep, and good nutrients is key. My real "me time" could be something as simple as taking a walk and getting fresh air (even if Dylan is with me), or ideally going on a run or a workout class.
Every mother needs to find balance, what does your village look like ?
Social support is key! We dont have to do this on our own -- it takes a village! My husband is amazing and supports me and my goals. We have amazing family, some close and some farther away, but they are here when we need it-- even if it is a call to my mom to vent or get support when I need it. We have help at home a few days a week (which was our baby nurse and has stayed on to help out). This allows me to work and allows me to have some me-time. Having mom friends (and non friends) is also important. There are days that I want to go out and not talk about mom life and just have fun, but there have also been middle of the nights when I needed to talk to another mom. I think the most important thing to remember is that we dont have to do this alone, but we do have to speak up and communicate our needs. It is okay to ask for help!
What are you working on improving about yourself as a woman and mother?
Everything! I think we are all a work in progress and continue to grow and change. I have definitely changed since having Dylan and I will continue to change and grow as he does. I worked on being more flexible and going with the flow when I was pregnant as I knew he would be the boss of the house and I wouldnt be on my own schedule anymore, but I think I have to continue to remind myself of that. We can't control everything and life happens, so I am going with it! I look forward to seeing how I will continue to grow and change as our life continues to change and evolve.
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