Juggling Work, Family, and Building a Business — Without the Illusion of Balance.

“Please do not talk to me about balance! We can’t do it all.” – Emma Grede.

Hearing this from someone as successful as Emma Grede, (British businesswoman, entrepreneur and fashion designer, CEO and co-founder of Good American, SKIMS) — with all the resources at her fingertips — felt like a breath of fresh air. It was honest, raw, and most importantly, REAL.

Growing up, I had the privilege of a stay-at-home mum. But I always knew I wanted to work when I had kids — not because I had to, but because I genuinely love what I do. Over time, that desire turned into a necessity, and that necessity began to feel heavy. The weight translated into anger, exhaustion, and the feeling of being stuck on the relentless hamster wheel of life.

I once had a conversation with a close friend, and a metaphor surfaced that summed it all up perfectly: life, at times, feels like a never-ending juggling act — and not in the whimsical, circus-like way people make it sound.

People often say, “It’s normal when you have young kids… it’ll get better.” Honestly? I hated that phrase when I first had my son, and I still do.

Yes, some things get better — but others don’t. Life doesn’t necessarily improve; we just adapt. We become better at managing chaos, but the challenges evolve. Relationships shift, unexpected curveballs hit, and sometimes, it’s just all a bit too much.

So no — I don’t buy into the whole “balance” myth. It’s not about balance. It’s about sacrifice and shifting priorities. Emma Grede says it best: some weeks, you’re a great mum. Other weeks, you’re a great colleague, or a great wife, sister, or friend. But rarely — if ever — are you everything at once. And that’s okay.

There are seasons when work takes the lead, and others where motherhood demands your full presence (not perfection, just presence). Sometimes it’s about pouring into your business. Other times, it’s simply about being with family and soaking in the moment.

And all of that… is okay.

Our children learn by watching. They see us hustle. They see us love what we do. But they also witness us pause, reassess, and choose presence over perfection. That’s a valuable lesson too.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve felt overwhelmed and exhausted — like I’ve let everyone (including myself) down. Why? Because my priority was keeping my family afloat. I had to stay healthy and hold it together while caring for everyone else. And yes, that came at a price: my business.

As a solo entrepreneur, I do it all — the content, the ads, the networking. There’s no one to "pick up the slack." So naturally, when I stepped away, everything slowed. I started spiraling into self-pity. But then I reminded myself: right now, I may not be a great businesswoman. My role, in this moment, is to be present with those who need me.

And I know: my time will come again.

So here I am — showing up again. Writing. Connecting. Listening.

Starting again.Listening again.Hoping this helps one of you too.

Amidst all the chaos, my clarity came through movement. One evening, I laid on my mat, turned on one of my own workout videos, and simply… listened. I didn’t move — but I listened. I followed my own voice giving instructions, and while my body stayed still, my mind followed every move.

It may not sound like much, but it was a start. I clicked play. I stayed. I listened. And in doing so, I gave myself the gift of presence — even if it wasn’t “productive” in the traditional sense.

This practice is actually backed by science: it’s called motor imagery (or mental imagery training). Athletes use it during injury recovery to retain their muscle memory and sharpen their mental connection to movement. Even without physical exertion, the brain stays active and engaged.

So if this is where you are — depleted, overwhelmed, unsure where to start — start here.Just press play.Just show up.Even if you don’t move, be present for you.

No five-step “get-back-on-track” list.

Just me.

Just honesty.

Just presence.

With love,

Anna Maria x