Meet Sarah Viliamu. She's a mum of two - her son is 5, her daughter is 7 months - with an incredibly supportive husband she's been with for over 13 years. Between her two children, Sarah went through two miscarriages, which she chose to share publicly, believing it's something that needs to be spoken about more often.
She's also currently navigating two very different seasons of motherhood at once - one child in prep, the other all things baby life - while turning what was a side hustle into her full-time gig as a model, content creator, coach and event host, after being made redundant just before going on maternity leave in December.
Here's what she had to say.
Describe motherhood in one sentence.
Motherhood is the hardest and most amazing experience all wrapped in one big beautiful hug.
Your work is all about self-love and confidence. How has becoming a mum changed the way you speak to yourself?
In all honesty it's something I try to work on every day, the negative self talk can easily creep in but ultimately I try to remind myself that my children are watching and listening to how I speak to myself, and that not only do I deserve self compassion and kindness, but my children deserve to grow up in a household where that is modelled.
What is something about motherhood that no one could have prepared you for?
Even though you know motherhood is 24/7, I don't think you quite conceptualise how literal the 24/7 is, and just how huge the extra mental load is.
What does support look like for you in this season of life?
My husband is a huge support for me, especially as I'm breastfeeding - he does anything he can to reduce my mental load and make life that bit easier for me. Also asking for help when I need it, whether that's from family or a friend.
You've built a community around empowering women. Has becoming a mum changed what empowerment means to you?
I'd say if anything it's amplified my mission and messages of empowerment. Becoming a mum has solidified my why behind encouraging all people to step into their confidence and empowerment.
If you could go back and give advice to yourself as a first-time mum, what would it be?
Your baby doesn't need a perfect mum, a happy mum is much more important.
When life feels overwhelming, what helps you come back to yourself as Sarah - not just mum, business owner or partner?
I often use the words "zoom out" and find it helps take me out of the overwhelm and look at the big picture. Gratitude and journaling are also key practices in my life.
We see you, Sarah.
Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Real Mums, Real Stories is a PAM Journal series celebrating the honest, unfiltered experiences of mums navigating this wild, beautiful season of life.