It is so easy for me to take everything to do with my children personally. I am a mom, after all, a stay-at-home mom at that. The problem is, when I am deeply identified with my kids’ successes and challenges, I am a worse parent than when I see more space between us. Sometimes I find it helpful to envision myself as a steward of these little people. They have landed in my life and are staying for a while. My job is to attend to them and look after them as best I can and then release them to continue on their journey.
Emily P.G. Erickson is a freelance writer specializing in mental health and parenting. She has written for popular digital publications, including Everyday Health, Health, The New York Times, Parents, Romper, WIRED, and more. Emily is a professional member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) and the Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ). Previously, Emily researched PTSD for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and earned a master's in psychology. You can find the latest from Emily at www.emilypgerickson.com.
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