Embracing the Chaos: A Journey Through Invites, Anxiety, and Community
I don't know about you, but for me life can sometimes feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle on a tightrope, especially when you add the complexities of being a working parent, living with chronic health issues, and feeling the waves of anxiety crash in. Still amidst the chaos, there are moments of magic that remind us of the strength found in community and the importance of self-acceptance.
Earlier this year, I received a generous invitation to the Women in Security (WiS) Awards at the stunning Shakespeare's Underglobe in London; a celebration of strength and solidarity among women in the security field, alongside our allies. As I read Liz Lloyd’s invitation, excitement and anxiety spun in my mind, kicking off a whirlwind of thoughts and questions.
Is my husband on shift?
What about childcare?
What will I wear?
Will my anxiety get worse when traveling alone?
The questions spiralled, and I felt that all-too-familiar tension in my chest. The pressure to juggle parenting duties with professional commitments can be overwhelming. I found myself grappling with guilt. Was I putting a work event before my responsibilities at home? The mind begins to play tricks, doesn’t it?
However, I’ve learned that sitting with those feelings, acknowledging the chaos, and then flipping the script can be liberating. I’m lucky to have built a supportive community around me, and through our wonderful WiS WhatsApp group, I reached out to see who might be travelling the same route. Enter…. Alecia Emerson-Thomas … a like-minded lovely who was headed to the event and on the Lizzy Line, too. We decided to travel together, definitely adding a layer of comfort that eased my nerves.
And, with childcare sorted, thanks to my lovely sister-in-law who took my girls for a takeaway and movie-filled evening, I could finally focus on what to wear. I rummaged through my wardrobe and pulled out a couple of pre-loved dresses that I’d not even worn yet. With a quick message to Alecia for a second opinion on which to wear, I settled on a silver sequin dress and a bubblegum pink coat to keep warm.
As I prepared for the evening, I found myself reflecting on the importance of mindset. Yes, I have a tendency to panic, but I’ve also trained myself to reframe those moments. Instead of waving a white flag and surrendering to anxiety, I have intentionally learned to embrace my emotions, allowing myself to feel them without beating myself up. It’s about managing your mindset … learning to flip that script and recognise that the stories we tell ourselves often exceed reality.
The Women in Security Awards was a wonderful experience filled with inspiring conversations and connections. I felt blessed to be surrounded by incredible women and allies who share the same passion for building a supportive community and amplifying the power of togetherness. I had heartwarming reunions with familiar faces like Letitia, Liz, Nicky, Sarah, Jacey, Kate, Ruth, Amy, Heidi and more, plus I made many new connections.
A deep heartfelt thank you to Liz Lloyd, Roy Cooper, and Josh Brace for creating this space of inclusivity and empowerment. Huge thanks to Alecia for being the perfect companion. It’s moments like these that remind us that we are stronger together, and it’s okay to embrace our imperfections.
As a neurodivergent and working parent, I often seek perfection, but perfection is a myth, right? What truly matters is the authenticity of our experiences and the connections we forge along the way. I owe a special credit to Lorraine Childs for empowering me to share my true story … one that reflects the genuine chaos and beauty of life, rather than polishing up a perfect-looking dream scenario where I always have my ducks in a row.
As we all manoeuvre through the speed bumps of our lives, I invite you to learn about my EVOLVE online series of workshops. These sessions are designed to equip you with essential soft (power) skills and stress management tools to help combat feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, whilst helping you on your path to personal or professional development. Together, we’ll focus on cultivating a mindset that fosters your best self and boosts productivity. I can help you, just like I helped myself! (DM me for more details).
So to all the carers, parents, professionals, and individuals navigating the complexities of life—remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Sit with those feelings, lean on your community, and celebrate your unique journey. The path may be winding, but the beauty lies in the connections we cultivate and the strength we draw from one another.
Please continue to lift each other up and embrace our sometimes wonderfully wonky behaviours and lives! 💖✨
