Ghada Odeh Ghada Odeh

How Your Thoughts Shape Your Reality

Our thoughts shape our reality, especially during life transitions. As mothers of older children, shifting our mindset from doubt and uncertainty to self-discovery and purpose can transform our experience. This is your time to rediscover yourself and embrace a new chapter focused on you.

As mothers, we spend years caring for our children, tending to their every need, and often placing their happiness before our own. It's a role we embrace with love, but as our kids grow older and need us less, we might find ourselves wondering, What now? The transition from full-time caregiver to rediscovering who we are can bring a flood of emotions—uncertainty, fear, and even self-doubt.

I believe that during these times, our thoughts hold immense power. I’ve noticed that when I was feeling down, overwhelmed, or lost, my external world would mirror that inner chaos. My relationships would become tense, work felt harder, and nothing seemed to go right. It was like my negative mindset was creating more negativity around me. But as I’ve learned, it doesn't have to be that way.

Your External Environment Reflects Your Inner World

The idea that our external environment is shaped by our internal thoughts might seem abstract at first, but in my experience, it’s incredibly real. Think about a time when you were stressed or anxious—didn't everything around you seem to reflect that energy? You might have found yourself more irritable, short-tempered, or even distant from the people you care about.

On the flip side, when you’re in a positive mindset, life flows more easily. You’re more patient, kinder to yourself, and more open to opportunities that may have been right in front of you all along. This shift in perspective can be a game-changer, especially for mothers whose children are getting older and finding their independence.

As moms, we’re used to being the center of our children’s lives, but what happens when they no longer need us in the same way? That’s when our inner thoughts can really start to affect how we see ourselves. Those thoughts of “I’m no longer needed” or “I don’t know what to do with myself” can create a narrative that leaves us feeling stuck, unfulfilled, and definitely lost.

Breaking the Cycle of Negative Thoughts

I remember feeling that way myself when my children started becoming more independent. I questioned my value, my purpose, and my future. But I realized that staying in that space, allowing those negative thoughts to dominate, was only going to keep me stuck. I needed to break the cycle.

If we constantly tell ourselves that we’re no longer useful, that’s exactly how we’ll see the world. Our external environment will reflect those internal beliefs. It can manifest in strained relationships, dissatisfaction with work, or even a loss of self-worth. But what if we could rewrite that story?

The Power of Positive Thinking

In my experience, one of the most transformative steps we can take is intentionally shifting our inner dialogue. Instead of focusing on what's lost—our children’s need for our constant care—we can focus on the possibilities ahead. This stage of life is not an end; it’s a new beginning.

It’s about rediscovering who we are outside of motherhood. What passions have you set aside over the years? What new interests could you explore? Have you truly been able to enjoy your being a working-mom without mom-guilt getting in the way? How can you start making yourself the center of your own story again?

I know firsthand how hard it can be to shift your mindset when you’re feeling down or uncertain, but I also know it’s possible. By focusing on thoughts of self-discovery, purpose, and growth, we can create an external reality that mirrors those positive beliefs. This is where we begin to see opportunities instead of obstacles, and where we start to embrace

The idea that our external environment is shaped by our internal thoughts might seem abstract at first, but in my experience, it’s incredibly real. I remember times when I felt completely overwhelmed—like nothing was going right. I wasn’t just battling with my own emotions; I was fighting with my friends, family, and even my partner. It felt like the universe was out to get me. But when I paused and reflected, I realized it all stemmed from my inner turmoil. My negative thoughts were creating a negative reality.

This cycle can feel never-ending. The more we focus on what’s going wrong, the more wrong things seem to happen. It’s easy to fall into that trap, thinking, “When it rains, it pours.” And the truth is, it does—because we allow it to. Our thoughts feed that storm.

Breaking the Cycle: Mindset Matters

If someone constantly holds onto negative thoughts, they’re likely to perceive their world as difficult or unwelcoming. This reinforces those beliefs and keeps them stuck. I’ve been there, and I know how hard it can be to break free. But I also know that shifting your mindset can transform not only how you feel inside, but how you experience the world around you.

For mothers whose children are getting older, this is especially important. The feelings of no longer being needed or wanted can become powerful negative thoughts. If we let these thoughts dominate, they can trap us in an environment where we feel stuck, lost, or unnecessary.

But here’s the truth: You are not stuck. You are not lost. You are still needed, and you are most certainly wanted.

This Is Your Time to Rediscover Yourself

I’ve seen it in myself and in others—when we make a conscious effort to shift our internal thoughts, we begin to see the world differently. I believe that this phase of life, where our kids are becoming more independent, is an opportunity for us to rediscover who we are outside of motherhood.

Ask yourself: What do I want from life now? Are you ready to start loving your job again? Are you ready to reignite your relationship with your partner? Most importantly, are you ready to start loving yourself?

For me, it was about learning to shift from thoughts of uncertainty and self-doubt to ones of possibility and purpose. And when I did that, I realized that this chapter of life is not about fading into the background—it’s about stepping into the spotlight.

Shifting Your Thoughts, Shaping Your Future

By intentionally shifting your inner dialogue, you can begin to shape a new chapter in your life. Think of it this way: when was the last time you were the focal point of your own story? It’s time to reconnect with the parts of yourself that may have been set aside. Maybe you have a passion that’s been waiting for attention or a dream you’ve pushed to the back burner. This is your moment to prioritize YOU.

Every day, I challenge myself to ask, “What am I thinking today?” It’s a simple question, but it’s powerful. If my thoughts are holding me back, I work to shift them—because those old, negative thought patterns are no longer welcome in my life. And if they’re holding you back, I encourage you to do the same. Kick them to the curb.

Your Journey Starts with You

This journey—rediscovering who you are beyond motherhood—starts within. Your thoughts shape your reality, so let them reflect the strong, capable woman you truly are. The best part? You’re in control of the narrative. You have the power to turn this chapter into one of growth, empowerment, and self-love.

In my experience, once we begin to rewrite our internal dialogue, the world opens up in ways we never imagined. Let your inner thoughts shape an external world that reflects the beauty, strength, and potential that’s always been within you.

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Ghada Odeh Ghada Odeh

From Someday to Today: How Moms Can Get Their Groove Back

How often do you catch yourself saying, ‘Someday I’ll focus on me’? Life has been all about family, caregiving, and juggling endless responsibilities, but now it’s time to shift from ‘Someday’ to ‘Today.’ Your dreams and passions matter — and the time to pursue them is now. Let’s explore how you can reclaim your time, energy, and sense of self, one step at a time.

How often do you find yourself saying, ‘Someday I’ll focus on me’?

Maybe it’s after the kids are older, or once things calm down, or when there’s just a little more time in the day. For years, you've been the rock of your family — taking care of everyone and everything but yourself. And while that’s an incredible gift, the truth is that it’s easy to lose yourself in the process.

So many moms fall into the ‘someday’ trap — waiting for the right moment to focus on their own dreams, passions, and well-being. But what if I told you that ‘someday’ isn’t actually coming? That the perfect time to start doing something for yourself isn’t sitting in the future, but right here, today.

Why Waiting for ‘Someday’ Keeps Us Stuck

Let’s be honest: life is always busy. There will always be something demanding your attention — whether it’s family, work, or the dozens of little things we juggle every day. The problem with ‘someday’ is that it can easily turn into never. When we keep putting ourselves on hold, we slowly lose touch with what lights us up and excites us.

It’s not selfish to say, “I matter, too.” It’s self-care. more importantly, it’s self-love and it’s necessary.

Reclaiming Yourself Today

Imagine what could happen if you crossed out ‘someday’ and embraced ‘today.’ You don’t need to wait until things are perfect to start exploring what makes you you beyond motherhood and caregiving. The moment you start taking even the smallest steps toward something you love, you’re already on your way to transformation.

  • Have you always wanted to learn a new skill or hobby? Start today with 15 minutes of practice.

  • Is there a passion project you’ve been dreaming about for years? Start today by writing down your first idea.

  • Are you longing to reconnect with your body, mind, or spirit? Start today with one mindful moment.

No more waiting. No more hoping for the right time. You have everything you need within you to start making your dreams a reality.

How to Move from ‘Someday’ to ‘Today’

Here’s a simple truth: the only way to make change happen is to start. It doesn’t have to be huge. You don’t need a 5-year plan. All you need is to take one step, and then another. Here are a few tips for making the shift:

  1. Prioritize Yourself
    Schedule time for you like it’s a non-negotiable appointment. Whether it’s 10 minutes a day or an hour a week, that time is yours to reconnect with what excites you.

  2. Break It Down
    Don’t wait for the perfect moment to jump all in. Start with small, manageable steps. If you want to write a book, start with a page. If you want to get fit, start with a walk. Every action counts.

  3. Shift Your Mindset
    Stop waiting for things to calm down or get easier. The ‘someday’ mindset keeps you stuck. Instead, shift to an action-oriented ‘today’ mindset, where you take ownership of your journey right now.

  4. Celebrate Small Wins
    Each step you take is worth celebrating! Don’t wait until you’ve achieved some big milestone — celebrate every little victory along the way, because it’s all progress.

Today is the Day

If you’re ready to break free from the ‘someday’ cycle, then today is your day to start. Take a moment to reflect on what you’ve been putting off, and make the choice to take action now. Your dreams and passions are just as important as anything else you take care of. In fact, taking care of you is what allows you to give your best to the people you love.

So, let me ask you: what’s one thing you’ve been waiting to do that you can start today? Let’s make it happen — one step, one action, one day at a time.

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Ghada Odeh Ghada Odeh

What Do We Do with the Space When Our Kids Grow Older?

As mothers, we spend years nurturing our children, but what happens when they no longer need us the same way? The space that’s left behind can feel unfamiliar, even overwhelming. It’s not just about letting go—it’s about rediscovering who we are now. In this new chapter, we have the opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, explore passions long set aside, and embrace the growth that comes with change. How will you fill the space left behind?

There’s a particular phase in motherhood that no one really prepares us for. It’s the stage where our children no longer need us the same way they did. They’re growing, becoming independent, and beginning to carve out their own space in the world. While this is a testament to the job we’ve done as mothers, it also comes with its own set of emotional challenges.

For many of us, it's not just about letting go or giving them their space—it's the realization that we suddenly have space too. Space that was once filled with the daily responsibilities of caring for them is now open, and for some, this can feel like a giant, gaping, void. The loss of being needed can leave us asking, "What do I do now?"

This question, honestly, can really be uncomfortable. After years of defining ourselves as mothers, it’s hard to remember who we were before or imagine who we can be now. But here’s the beauty of this moment: it’s a blank canvas, a chance to rediscover parts of ourselves that have been waiting in the wings.

So, what do we do with this space?

  1. Embrace the Change
    Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel a sense of loss. Grieve that phase of motherhood while welcoming the opportunity for growth. This is the start of something new, and that can be both exciting and scary at the same time. Whatever you do, don’t let scared win.

  2. Reconnect with Yourself
    This is your time to rediscover who you are outside of being a mother. What passions or interests have you pushed aside? Now is the perfect time to explore them. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, investing in your health, or starting a new career, this is your time.

  3. Build a New Community
    As your kids build their independence, it’s important to strengthen your connections with other women who understand this transition. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you during this time.

  4. Create New Rituals
    Just because your children need you differently doesn’t mean your role is over. Create new traditions and ways of bonding with your older kids. Their need for you will evolve, and you can be part of that journey in a new way.

The space left behind by our growing children isn’t empty—it’s a space waiting to be filled with new possibilities. It’s a journey of self-discovery and growth, one that many women are navigating. So let’s step into this space with curiosity, with hope, and with the belief that the best is yet to come.

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Ghada Odeh Ghada Odeh

Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs: A Guide to Empowerment

Limiting beliefs can act as invisible barriers that hold us back from realizing our full potential. These deeply ingrained thoughts and beliefs shape our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us, often leading to self-doubt, fear, and a sense of limitation. In this blog post, we'll explore what limiting beliefs are, the different types that may be holding you back, and most importantly, how to break free from their grip. Let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment together.

Limiting beliefs can act as invisible barriers that hold us back from realizing our full potential. These deeply ingrained thoughts and beliefs shape our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us, often leading to self-doubt, fear, and a sense of limitation. In this blog post, we'll explore what limiting beliefs are, the different types that may be holding you back, and most importantly, how to break free from their grip. Let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment together.

Limiting beliefs are those negative or self-defeating thoughts and beliefs that we hold about ourselves, others, and the world. They often stem from past experiences, societal conditioning, or negative self-talk. These beliefs create a narrow lens through which we view ourselves and our potential, inhibiting us from taking risks, pursuing our goals, and living authentically.

There are various types of limiting beliefs that can manifest in different areas of our lives. These may include beliefs about our worthiness, abilities, relationships, success, and abundance. For example, beliefs such as "I'm not good enough," "I don't deserve happiness," or "I'll never succeed" are common examples of limiting beliefs that can hold us back from reaching our goals and living fulfilling lives.

To understand how limiting beliefs operate, let's consider the habit loop model: cue, routine, and reward. Imagine yourself in this scenario, who receives an email about a job opening. This serves as the cue. Your routine involves doubting your qualifications and comparing herself to others, leading to feelings of inadequacy. The reward? Temporary relief from the discomfort of uncertainty, but at the cost of reinforcing your limiting belief that you are not capable of advancing in your career.

Breaking free from limiting beliefs requires conscious effort and commitment. Here are five tips to help you on your journey:

Practice self-awareness: Observe your thoughts and identify recurring patterns of negativity.

Cultivate mindfulness: Stay present and detached from negative thoughts by practicing mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises.

Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, acknowledging that it's okay to have negative thoughts but not to let them define you.

Challenge limiting beliefs: Question the validity of negative beliefs and reframe them with empowering alternatives. Replace "I'm not good enough" with "I am worthy and capable."

Seek support: Reach out to mentors, coaches, or support groups for guidance and accountability on your journey towards empowerment.

Empowering Affirmations for Transformation

To reinforce your journey towards empowerment, here are five empowering affirmations to incorporate into your daily life:

"I am worthy of love, success, and abundance."

"I believe in my abilities and trust in my journey."

"I release fear and embrace possibility."

"I am enough, exactly as I am."

"I deserve happiness, fulfillment, and joy in every aspect of my life."

Limiting beliefs may have held you back in the past, but they don't have to dictate your future. By understanding what limiting beliefs are, recognizing the different types that may be affecting you, and implementing strategies to break free from their grip, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Remember, transformation is a journey, not a destination. Take the first step today towards creating a life filled with limitless possibilities.

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Ghada Odeh Ghada Odeh

Finding Freedom: The Path to Becoming Unstuck

Are you ready to break free from the shackles of stagnation and reclaim your sense of purpose and vitality? Feeling trapped in a cycle, unable to move forward, can be incredibly draining, affecting every aspect of our lives from career aspirations to personal growth and relationships. It's a sentiment many of us can relate to, myself included.

Are you ready to break free from the shackles of stagnation and reclaim your sense of purpose and vitality? Feeling trapped in a cycle, unable to move forward, can be incredibly draining, affecting every aspect of our lives from career aspirations to personal growth and relationships. It's a sentiment many of us can relate to, myself included.

For years, I found myself merely going through the motions, devoid of a clear direction or purpose beyond the roles of mother and wife. While I cherish these roles, I realized that somewhere along the way, I had lost touch with my own identity. It took me thirteen years to recognize that amidst nurturing others, I had neglected the most crucial person: myself.

One culprit often responsible for this sense of entrapment is mom guilt—a nagging feeling that surfaces whenever we prioritize our own needs. Whether it's carving out time for work, self-care, or socializing, mom guilt has a way of casting doubt on our decisions, leaving us second-guessing every step we take.

Yet, amidst this turmoil, one truth remains steadfast: when we prioritize self-care, everyone around us benefits. Just as the saying goes, "you can't pour from an empty cup."

So, where do we begin the journey to break free from feeling stuck? Here are three simple, yet impactful strategies to help you start feeling unstuck today:

1. Take a Break: Grant yourself permission to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, even if just for a few moments. Whether it's savoring a cup of tea in serene silence or basking in the warmth of the sun outdoors, these brief respites can provide clarity and a renewed perspective.

2. Set Small Goals: Break down daunting objectives into manageable tasks, enabling you to regain a sense of control and progress. By celebrating each small victory along the way, you'll fuel your motivation to continue moving forward, one step at a time.

3. Practice Self-Compassion: Embrace kindness and understanding towards yourself, particularly during challenging times. Acknowledge that feeling stuck is a temporary state, and extend yourself the same compassion you would offer a dear friend facing similar struggles.

While the journey to liberation won't occur overnight, cultivating awareness of your mindset serves as a crucial first step. From there, it's about translating this newfound clarity into tangible action.

It's time to say goodbye to the old version of yourself, caught in a cycle of stagnation and uncertainty, and welcome the journey ahead with renewed energy and determination. Reclaim your joy, passion, and identity, as the path to becoming unstuck awaits you.

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