THREAD: some reflections on how I’ve changed during lockdown - thank you @jillberry102 for the inspiration.

1) Fighting against the urge to ‘be perfect’ has been easier when I began to accept the below - WFH, full time childcare and just getting by is plenty! @maternityCPD 1/n

2) A lot of my self worth and self value was tied up in the value others appeared to give me. Even outside of work I was obsessed with my followers and numbers of hits on my blog. Now I value the strength of connection, not the quantity 2/n

3) I need to time to form my opinion on something. I come up with my best critical thinking and most articulate thoughts when I’ve given something the time and space. I’m clearer now than I ever was.

4) The realisation that no matter how cloudy the sky, the blue sky remains 3/n

5) That I am braver than I ever knew, and now I put myself forward to take on new opportunities, such as speaking at #BrewEdIsolation this weekend - I’m terrified of being caught out as an imposter, but excited enough to want to share my thoughts! #10percentbraver 4/n

6) I can have my own needs that must come before others. I can ask for those needs with candour. I can be unashamed of this. I can do this without seeking others’ approval or validation. I am important. 5/n

7) I love being a mummy. I have always loved my little girl, but in truth I haven’t always loved being a mummy, or at least, my perception of what being a mummy should be. I love spending time with her. This revelation is truly joyful 6/n

8) Connection is everything. Connection opens our minds, makes us feel, makes us think, and helps us to just be. Connection supports others. Positive connection towards others makes the entire world go round. The way we make people feel is everything. 7/n

And finally 9) Some days are hard. Some days are an absolute brutal slog to just survive. Some days are a scream and cry and wail in sheer frustration and panic and fear day. And still - we rise. @WomenEd 8/n