27: Riding the Waves of Anxiety and Guilt in Motherhood

Redefining Us

Redefining Us
27: Riding the Waves of Anxiety and Guilt in Motherhood
Oct 02, 2025 Season 1 Episode 27
Stephanie Konter-O'Hara

Have you ever taken your first trip away from your baby and been blindsided by anxiety, guilt, or even intrusive fears? In this solo episode, Stephanie shares her raw experience of leaving her daughter for the first time and the unexpected emotions that surfaced.

Stephanie reflects on the way intrusive thoughts show up for parents, especially mothers, and how easy it is to slip into guilt for pursuing passions outside of parenthood. She speaks to the tension that exists between being present with your child and living in alignment with your own values. She highlights both the relief of connecting with other moms who share similar fears and the challenge of reconciling two seemingly opposing needs.

Her story normalizes the complexity of motherhood and reminds us that living fully often means holding space for two truths at once. It's okay to want to see every moment with your child and it's also okay to follow your own ambitions even if that means being away from them for a moment.

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