The Mindful Midlife Mom - Mindfulness Practices and Techniques for Mentally Exhausted Moms in the Sandwich Generation

Transform Learning into Action on the Mindful Career Change Podcast.  Join host Valerie Mekki in today's empowering episode as we bridge the gap between knowledge and practice. It's one thing to absorb information from books, podcasts, and online courses, but it's another to turn that learning into real-life achievements.

Discover two creative approaches to transition from a 'learner' to a 'doer' and ensure your time invested in learning truly pays off. Whether you're looking to boost your career, master a new skill, or embrace a life change, this episode offers practical strategies to make your learning journey impactful. Get ready to challenge yourself, embrace your 'sliding doors' moments, and transform your potential into action with today's affirmation: 'I am not just a learner; I am a doer.' Don't let your learning journey end with knowledge—make it the beginning of something great.

Show Notes and Timestamps:
===
[00:00:09] Intro
[00:02:00] The pitfalls of not taking action
[00:02:45] The sliding door theory
[00:04:44] Archaeologist mindset
[00:05:18] Teacher mindset
[00:06:11] Start of affirmation
 [00:09:00] End of affirmation
[00:09:09] Make Your affirmations S.T.I.C.K.Y.

- Mirror Talk by Louise Hay

If you’re curious about how to make your affirmations S.T.I.C.K.Y listen to episode 1 and I’ll walk you through how to make your affirmation practice a more effective and transformative tool for your career-changing journey.

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

In our goal-setting series, titled 'Add these three 'S’s' to your goals,' we discussed how incorporating three essential 'S’s' can enhance your chances of success. Today, we’re zeroing in on one particular 'S': 'Sparking Joy' by infusing play into our adult lives. Rediscover the joy in your work life with the surprising secret weapon of play. I'll take you on a heartfelt journey, sharing how integrating play into our daily routines can reinvigorate creativity, build resilience, and lead to career success.

Through personal stories and scientific insights, we unravel the amazing benefits of serotonin and dopamine, two happiness-inducing chemicals released during play. Embrace this replay episode as a guide to inject wonder and curiosity back into your life, and watch as the transformation unfolds, not just in your career, but in your overall well-being.

To learn more about adding the ‘Three Essential ‘S’s’ into your Goals for a Transformative Year,’ check out episode #34 to learn about each element to enhance your goals for game-changing results.

Show Notes and Timestamps:

===

[00:00:00] Intro 

[00:01:16] Replay episode #31

[00:03:06] What is play? 

[00:04:27] The science behind play 

[00:07:29] Identify your play personality

[00:10:11] Start of affirmation

[00:13:01] End of affirmation

[00:13:27] Making your affirmation S.T.I.C.K.Y 

[00:15:03] End

If you’re curious about how to make your affirmations sticky, listen to episode 1 and I’ll walk you through how to make your affirmation practice a more effective and transformative tool for your career-changing journey. 

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

No one ever prepares you for the massive hit to your ego or the frustration that comes with learning a new profession. You may have to deal with learning new technology, grasping new concepts and theories, and may even fail a test. However, starting over (again) also means learning and failing. 

In today’s episode, host Valerie Mekki, a career change counselor, delves into the realities of being a student again as you pivot your new career, start a side hustle, or launch a passion project. She shares the importance of adopting a beginner’s mindset to help you optimize your learning phase and avoid any possibility of derailment or contemplating quitting. She also shares an empowering affirmation to help remind you that you are a student again, and mastery doesn’t happen overnight and is part of the journey toward a new career. 

[00:00:00] Today's affirmation

[00:01:11] Introduction

[00:03:00] You're not immune to the disappointing failures 

[00:04:16] Five tips I wish I knew when I was learning

[00:06:29] Start of Affirmation

[00:09:21] Make your affirmations S.T.I.C.K.Y

[00:11:00] End

If you're curious to learn more about getting the most out of your goals for this year,  check out episode #34 - "Add These Three S's To Your New Year's Goals for a Thriving Career Change"

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

Unleash Your Inner Bravery: Conquering Fear with Courage. Join host Valerie Mekki, a career change counselor, as she delves into the heart of what it means to be brave in today's episode. Forget the grand, superhero-like gestures; discover how true bravery lies in the everyday choices we make. Learn how the power of quick, decisive actions can transform fear into growth and unlock your greatest potential. Valerie offers practical insights and inspiring affirmations to help you build your 'bravery muscle' in day-to-day life, preparing you for bigger challenges and bolder goals. Whether it's speaking up, trying new experiences, or facing daunting tasks, this episode is your guide to embracing bravery in all its forms. Tune in and find out how to turn split-second moments of courage into a path of transformative success.

Show Notes:

[00:00:08] Intro

[00:02:04] What is bravery? 

[00:03:23]  Bravery doesn't always mean dramatic actions

[00:04:14] Start of affirmation

[00:06:51] End of affirmation

[00:08:43] End

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

Kickstart your year with a transformative approach to goal-setting in this episode of the Mindful Life Changes Podcast (Formerly known as the Mindful Career Change Podcast). Host Valerie Mekki, a career change counselor, guides you through a journey of self-discovery and motivation. This isn't just another talk about New Year's resolutions; it's a deep dive into the 'why' behind your ambitions. 

Discover the power of 'intrinsic motivation' and how it can revolutionize your approach to achieving goals. Valerie introduces the '3 S’s' - key strategies for a truly transformative year. Learn how to confront fears, embrace continuous learning, and add sparks of joy into your life for a more fulfilling and successful year. Plus, reinforce your intentions with an empowering affirmation for transformation. If you're ready to turn your goals into achievements, this episode is your first step toward a year of fearlessness, knowledge, and joy!

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[00:00:09] Intro

[00:01:52] What truly drives your goals

[00:02:58] Intrinsic motivation

[00:03:41] Adding the three S's to your goals

[00:06:39] Empowering affirmation

[00:10:09] How to make your affirmation sticky

[00:11:03] End

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

Visualization isn't just about daydreaming; it's a powerful tool that can mentally and emotionally prepare you for the successes you're working towards. Whether it's a new career, a personal achievement, or simply cultivating a more positive mindset, visualization can be your roadmap to actualizing your aspirations. So, let’s dive in and discover how this technique can unlock new levels of motivation and clarity in your career change journey.

Show Notes and Timestamps:

[00:00:09] Resolution makers abandoned their goals within one week
[00:01:12] Intro
[00:02:33] Let's think of our goals as seeds
[00:03:12] Visualization and your brain
[00:03:45] How visualization helped me crush my goal
[00:04:59] Visualization provides clarity and focus
[00:06:27] Seven tips for a visual meditation practice
[00:08:59] Start of affirmation
[00:12:33] Make your affirmations S.T.I.C.K.Y
[00:13:24] End

If you’re curious about how to make your affirmations sticky, listen to episode 1 and I’ll walk you through how to make your affirmation practice a more effective and transformative tool for your career-changing journey. 

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

In this special replay, join us as we revisit one of our most heartfelt episodes of the year: 'I am outgrowing my comfort zone, and I am capable of moving past the discomfort.' Host Valerie Mekki reflects on the unexpected journey of starting this podcast, the learning curves embraced without a plan, and the profound impact of community feedback. 

Listen to her backstory of sharing this passion project with her parents and the universal resonance of our affirmations. This episode is a reminder to all career pivoters (and beyond) that stepping out of your comfort zone is where growth begins. Tune in for an inspiring journey from comfort to courage, and let today's replay be your guide to transforming discomfort into tomorrow's strength.

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

Remember how liberating it felt to play as a child? That carefree joy and boundless creativity can be yours again, helping you navigate adulthood, especially during career transitions. In this episode of the Mindful Career Change, host Valerie Mekki delves into the science of play, revealing its multifaceted benefits that range from lower stress levels, enhanced coping strategies, to a surge in creativity and self-confidence. We'll tug at your heartstrings with reminiscences of our childhood games and urge you to do the same. Reigniting that sense of playful joy can fuel your happiness and motivation, making the road to career change less daunting.

Are you a Joker or a Director? Can you identify with the Explorer or the Collector? We'll help you uncover your play personality, a concept backed by the enlightening research of Dr. Stuart Brown. Recognize your play type and learn to infuse joy into your life with a transformational affirmation we share with you. We also offer guidance on creating sticky affirmations and building a sustainable affirmation practice to support your career transition. So hit that play button, and let's reclaim the joy of play in our adult lives! 

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

Discover why acknowledging your 'wins,' no matter how big or small, isn't just about feeling good—it's about sustaining momentum and well-being on your journey. In this inspiring episode of the Mindful Life Changes Podcast (formerly known as the Mindful Career Change podcast), join host Valerie Mekki as she explores the vital importance of recognizing and rewarding your achievements during a career change. With the affirmation for self-esteem, "I Am Proud of What I’ve Achieved and I Am Worthy of Joy and Celebration," Valerie delves into the often overlooked practice of self-reward and its critical role in preventing career change burnout.

Learn the science behind positive reinforcement, understand how it enhances learning and motivation, and explore practical ways to reward yourself. From taking breaks and journaling to personal acknowledgments and indulging in self-care, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to honor your hard work and foster a mindset of success and self-appreciation. Tune in for an enlightening journey toward recognizing your worth and the transformative power of celebrating your career-changing efforts.

Show Notes and Timestamps:

[00:01:13] Intro

[00:02:46] Positive reinforcement is more than just a feel-good strategy

[00:04:10] Ways to reward yourself with positive reinforcement 

[00:06:22] Start of the affirmation

[00:08:32] End of affirmation 

[00:09:35] Make your affirmations sticky 

[00:10:33] ​End

Learn more about the 5 key roles/people to have in your inner circle for your career-changing journey with episode 26. If you’re curious about how to make your affirmations sticky, listen to episode 1 and I’ll walk you through how to make your affirmation practice a more effective and transformative tool for your career-changing journey.

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.

Each daunting challenge requires a decision to grab that opportunity of growth. Whether it's speaking up in a meeting, pushing yourself in a workout, or making a bold career move, this episode provides you with the tools to trust in your abilities and take that leap of faith.

Discover how embracing these challenges, no matter how small or significant, can enhance your self-efficacy, resilience, and personal growth. Learn how to harness the power of positive affirmations and mantras to guide you through these critical moments, turning fear into courage and doubt into confidence.

Show Notes and Timestamps:

[00:00:37] Intro

[00:02:09] The exact moment when you're put to the test

[00:04:01] Start of affirmation

[00:07:07] End of affirmation

[00:08:34] End

If you’re curious about how to make your affirmations sticky, listen to episode 1 and I’ll walk you through how to make your affirmation practice a more effective and transformative tool for your career changing journey. 

You’re listening to the right show, formerly known as the Mindful Life Changes or Mindful Career Change. We’ve pivoted through the years, but finally landed on the right path: content for moms in the ‘Sandwich Generation’, because midlife disruption doesn't have to break you. 

New episodes drop on:

• Sundays: 20-min episodes addressing common midlife challenges with practical strategies plus a mindfulness practice (affirmations, mantras, or meditations)
• Wednesdays: Bite-sized episodes to reinforce Sunday's mindfulness technique & reset your week

More from The Mindful Midlife Mom:

Discover Valerie's articles on ohhellomidlife.com or watch her videos on YouTube @ohhellomidlife

This podcast explores patience, meditation, confidence, presence, and overcoming resentment while cultivating calm, peace, mindfulness, clarity, mantras, and addressing loneliness and burn out; it covers boundaries, caregiving, guilt, affirmations, working moms, self-care, midlife crisis, empty nesters, empowerment, people pleasing, compassion fatigue, family caregiving, stress relief, self-worth, stress management, and how to shift from reactive to centered when feeling short tempered, offering tools for self acceptance, easing mental exhaustion, building emotional resilience, harnessing inner strength, and preventing caregiver fatigue for those in the sandwich generation through expert advice on boundaries setting.