As Mother’s Day approaches, I find myself reflecting even more deeply on the women who shaped us—especially the woman who shaped me: my mother. Through hosting the About Your Mother podcast and writing my memoir, Both Sides of Then, I’ve learned that Mother’s Day isn’t just about celebration—it’s also about reflection, curiosity, and connection.
At the heart of my work is one simple but powerful belief: “If you want to truly know someone, ask them about their mother.”
After years of heartfelt interviews, personal exploration, and writing, I’m excited to share something special with you: a selection of carefully crafted prompts designed to help you better understand the woman your mother was before she became your parent—and in doing so, to better understand yourself.
Why Understanding Our Mothers Matters
Before our mothers became our parents, they lived full lives — filled with dreams, heartbreaks, triumphs, and struggles. Their stories didn’t start with us, but they profoundly shaped us.
Through my own journey, I’ve learned that when we take the time to explore their experiences with curiosity and compassion, we unlock deeper layers of our own story.
I encourage you to have subjective curiosity about your life rather than objective authority. Rather than saying, my mom was critical because she was my mom, rather be curious, why was she critical? Why did she never say she was proud of you? There are clues in her story that led to her behavior.
What You’ll Gain from Reflecting on Your Mother’s Story
When you take this journey, you might find:
- Legacy and Growth: Exploring our mothers’ lives helps us better understand how we mother ourselves and the next generation — with more intention and heart.
- Stronger Bonds: Whether your relationship with your mother is close, complicated, or somewhere in between, reflection can open new doors to empathy and connection.
- Healing and Self-Acceptance: Understanding where we come from can offer us new compassion for who we are today.
Your mother’s journey before she became your parent, her dreams, challenges, love and sacrifices shaped the path you walk.
A Personal Reminder: Stay Curious
Something I often share, and remind myself, is: “We mother how we were mothered—until we question it.”
The journey to understanding isn’t always easy. Some moments bring up laughter, some bring tears. But curiosity, rather than judgment, can transform not only how we see our mothers—but how we see ourselves.
Start Your Journey: Download My Free Reflection Prompts
If you’re ready to explore your mother’s story (and your own) I’ve created a special resource just for you. These Mother’s Day Reflection Prompts are perfect for journaling, deepening family conversations, honoring your mother’s memory, and exploring your own emotional legacy.
I hope these prompts help you find healing, joy, and a deeper understanding of the woman who shaped your life.
Download the Mother’s Day Reflection Prompts
