“Mum, you know I can now walk to school and back by myself.”

My 9-year-old reminded me for the umpteenth time, the night before school resumed for the session.

“Yeah, I know,” I replied.
“I’m thinking about it…”

“Oh no, Mum!” he protested.

He knows that “I’m thinking about it” is my classic line when I don’t want to commit.

I smiled as I looked at the baby of yesterday, now seeking independence today. 😄

Later that week, his dad agreed to let him try the 7-minute walk home. But of course, he quietly followed from a distance, like a guardian angel watching and observing, without my son’s knowledge.

When he told me, I laughed.

It reminded me of a folklore I once read.

The story is told of a boy who, when he came of age, was expected to spend the night alone in a terrifying forest. It was a rite of passage. The boys were often afraid, but it had to be done. On the chosen night, a father would lead his son to the forest, blindfold him, and leave. The boy sat through the night, imagining every fearful thing that could happen. What he didn’t know was that his father never left; he was close by, watching and waiting until dawn. The boy completed the rite successfully, though he never realised he was never truly alone.

These two independent experiences, my son’s short walk home and the boy in the folklore, got me thinking: our perception and approach to new experiences and growth shape how our minds adapt. The outcomes in both stories mirror real life.

I’ve faced bold, daring challenges and responsibilities that stretched my expertise and capacity, and I know you have too.

Sometimes I meet them with trepidation, like the boy in the forest; other times with the quiet confidence of my 9-year-old. But one thing remains true: the human mind can stretch, adapt, and adjust more than we think.

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And research agrees. Neuroscientists call it neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections. Studies, such as those by Draganski et al. (2004), have shown that when we take on new challenges, our brain literally changes, building new capacity. In other words, you are wired to adapt.

So, if you’re on the verge of taking a big decision, be it with fear or with great confidence.

• taking a new job,
• shouldering extra responsibility,
• starting a relationship,
• beginning a new habit or course,
• moving cities,
• getting married or having a baby

Be assured: you can. God designed the mind and spirit to handle growth and adapt, especially when it feels daunting.

And just like my son’s dad in the shadows or the father in that folklore, you too have Someone watching, guiding, and just a whisper away whenever you’re afraid.

“Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, LORD, for you are with me. Psalm 23:4

This week, as I readjust my routine to accommodate work, school resumptions, and other responsibilities, I’ve been reminded of something I wrote years ago: Trendy Mum Self-Management Tips 101. Every single tip is still as practical today as it was then, and they’ve carried me through different seasons of navigating motherhood and work.

Here’s a quick summary:

• Take it one day at a time — don’t load tomorrow’s worries into today.
• Ask for help — no medals for Superwoman.
• Delegate wisely — let others share the load.
• Create routines and meal plans — they free your brain for what matters.
• Protect “Me” and family time — interruptions can wait.
• Keep growing — whether in your career, through learning, or in simple self-care.
• Pray and lean on your support network — strength comes in community and in God.

You can read the full list here 👉Trendy Mum Self-Management Tips 101​

My word for you today is

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t — you’re right.” — Henry Ford.

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Love and Blessings

Roseline

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1. Simplify your mum-work life: Read, laugh, and learn practical advice and stories to make your journey easier—Visit my blog.​
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3. Use my free resources: Download tools and guides I’ve personally used to simplify life—Get them here.​

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