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 major 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). Formerly a mental health researcher, Emily also holds a master's degree in psychology. You can find the latest from Emily at www.emilypgerickson.com.
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