Healthy and Happy Hormones

I recently had the incredible opportunity to be a guest on Sharon Smith's podcast, Focus Reset 2.0, for her "Changing Seasons" episode. 

As someone who's passionate about personal growth, wellness, and navigating life’s unpredictable twists and turns, I was thrilled to join Sharon in discussing these themes. 

Here’s a glimpse into our conversation and some of the insights we explored. 

Embracing Summer: A Time for Rest, Recharge, and Reflection 

Sharon began our discussion by highlighting the importance of summer as a season for resetting—both physically and mentally. For many, summer offers a break from the usual routines, an opportunity to spend time with family, soak up the sun, and perhaps even travel. 

When asked how I spend my summers, I shared that they typically involve a mix of relaxation and activity. Whether it’s lounging by a pool or embarking on an adventure like paragliding, I believe in striking a balance between rest and excitement. 

My Journey: From Marketing Consultant to Wellness Advocate 

Sharon asked me to introduce myself and share a bit about my journey. By day, I’m a marketing consultant, but I’ve also become deeply involved in promoting healthy living, especially for women navigating menopause.

This path was shaped by my own experiences—particularly when I was diagnosed with premature menopause at just 36. This diagnosis was a turning point in my life. It forced me to prioritise my health and well-being in ways I hadn’t before. I realised the importance of understanding my body, managing stress, and taking time for self-care.

What started as a personal journey soon evolved into a mission to help others. I founded a community (Healthy and Happy Hormones) along with Maggie Fordham, that offers support and resources for women going through similar experiences, aiming to empower them to take charge of their health. 

Work-Life Balance: A Delicate Juggling Act

One of the key topics we discussed was work-life balance—a concept that many of us strive for but often find elusive. For me, balance isn’t about everything being equal. Instead, it’s about feeling like I’m successfully managing the various aspects of my life without dropping the ball. Sometimes, the demands of work take precedence; other times, personal life requires more attention. 

The key is to keep everything moving, like a seesaw that’s constantly in motion. I shared with Sharon that achieving balance often feels like a juggling act. With so many responsibilities on my plate, including my career, family, and my role as a caregiver for my mother, I’ve had to learn to navigate the ups and downs. 

For me, success isn’t about perfection; it’s about making progress and adapting to the changes life throws my way. 

Navigating Life’s Changing Seasons 

The heart of our conversation revolved around the theme of changing seasons in life. Whether it’s a career shift, a personal loss, or a new chapter, we all face moments where we need to recalibrate and find our footing. 

For me, one of those seasons came when I had to come to terms with the reality that my family would remain just the three of us—my husband, my son, and me—due to my early menopause. It wasn’t something we had planned for, but it was a reality we had to accept. 

Sharon and I discussed the importance of adapting to these changes and finding ways to move forward. It’s not always easy, but by focusing on what you can control and being kind to yourself during tough times, you can navigate these transitions more smoothly. 

The Importance of Self-Care and Celebration 

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on this journey is the importance of self-care. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of daily life, but taking time for yourself is crucial. 

I shared with Sharon how I’ve learned to carve out moments for myself, whether it’s spending a day in London with old friends or simply taking a break from my responsibilities. These moments of self-indulgence are not just luxuries—they’re necessities for maintaining my well-being. 

Sharon and I also talked about the importance of celebrating the small victories. Life isn’t just about the big milestones; it’s about finding joy in the everyday moments. Whether it’s a successful work project, a beautiful sunset, or simply making it through a challenging day, these small wins deserve recognition. 

Final Thoughts and Resources 

As we wrapped up our conversation, Sharon asked me to share some resources that have been helpful to me. 

One book I highly recommend is Unstressable by Mo Gawdat and Alice Law. It’s a practical guide to managing stress and breaking it down into manageable steps, something I believe everyone can benefit from. 

Being a guest on Focus Reset 2.0 gave me the chance to reflect on my life’s journey, share what I’ve learned, and hopefully inspire others who are navigating their own changing seasons. 

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, but with the right mindset and support, we can all find our way through. 

Thank you, Sharon, for having me on your podcast and for creating a space where these important conversations can happen. 

If you’re at a crossroads, in transition, or just ready for something new, I encourage you to listen to Focus Reset 2.0. It’s a valuable resource for anyone looking to reset and recharge.