What's your 'overwhelm-crushing' Scholarly Mama® superpower?

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Quiz Questions

1.
At what stage of your scholarly journey are you currently?
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- A.
  I'm not even remotely interested in PhD/doctoral study!
- B.
  Not started yet, but dreaming of doing my PhD/doctoral degree one day soon!
- C.
  It's still early days for me on my PhD/doctoral journey. Can you tell? Let's get this party started!
- D.
  I'm about halfway through my PhD/doctorate and geez.. what a ride it's been so far!
- E.
  Oh, believe me... I've put my years into this PhD/doctoral degree! Almost finished thankfully, but hey who's counting?
- F.
  I'm PhDone Mama! Woooo hoooo!
2.
Would you say that you spend your time well?
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- A.
  What time? I never have any! Hmmm on reflection, I do make time for the things I truly care about.
- B.
  Yes, I think I'm productive when I have to be and have little to no free time to spend with my family or by myself but somehow I'm thriving in the chaos!
- C.
  I'm quite organised so I get everything done for my family but I'd like some time just for me. I know it's up to me to make the time to look after myself and I'm ready for it.
- D.
  Finding the time for the things that truly matter to me on top of my PhD journey is very challenging, but I am learning every day how much I am truly capable of!
- E.
  This is something I constantly struggle with.
3.
Which phrase best describes how you feel about your scholarly motherhood journey?
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- A.
  I find the juggle-struggle of scholarly motherhood difficult to navigate and have no positive words to describe it.
- B.
  At times, tough, tiring, and unrelenting, leaving no time or energy for ME. It can feel like I'm burning all the candles at every end, but I believe it's only taking me closer to my goal.
- C.
  It's tough but I know it's just a season, I'll finish my PhD eventually and my kids won't need me so much as they get older. However, if I stick to my plan, I believe I will reach my goals.
- D.
  Fun and rewarding! It motivates and inspires me every day.
4.
When faced with a tight deadline and family commitments, how do you prioritise your tasks?
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- A.
  I break down my tasks and create a detailed plan.
- B.
  I get stuck in a cycle of overwhelm and feel disempowered by it.
- C.
  I stay positive and adapt as needed to overcome challenges.
- D.
  I find moments of joy in both my PhD life and family life.
- E.
  I take a moment to reflect and focus on what's most important.
5.
How do you feel about juggling your PhD research with your family's needs?
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- A.
  I embrace the chaos and find happiness in both roles.
- B.
  I struggle to blend the many hats I wear.
- C.
  I strive to stay mindful and give each aspect the attention it deserves.
- D.
  Sometimes I get overwhelmed, but I always find a way through.
- E.
  It's a challenge, but with the right strategy, I can manage it.
6.
What's your approach to maintaining personal wellness as Mama on a scholarly journey?
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- A.
  I plan my self-care activities and make sure to stick to them.
- B.
  I adapt my wellness routine to fit my research schedule and family life.
- C.
  I find joy in little wellness rituals that keep me grounded.
- D.
  I practice mindfulness to ensure my mental and emotional health.
- E.
  Wellness? What's that? I don't have time for self-care.
7.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed by your academic workload?
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- A.
  I take a step back to breathe and centre myself.
- B.
  I reassess my plans and adjust my goals accordingly.
- C.
  I get stuck in the overwhelm and make very little progress.
- D.
  I look for the silver lining and the learning opportunities in the situation.
- E.
  I remind myself of past challenges I've overcome and push through.
8.
What's your strategy for dealing with the isolation that can come with a scholarly journey when you're also a Mama?
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- A.
  I plan regular check-ins with my peers and mentors.
- B.
  I remind myself that this is part of the process and stay connected to my support network.
- C.
  I find joy in connecting with other Mamas on PhD/academic journeys and sharing experiences.
- D.
  I practice mindfulness and self-care to combat feelings of loneliness and stay engaged.
- E.
  Truth be told, I don't have a strategy that works.
9.
How do you manage the guilt that can come with navigating both academic life and motherhood?
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- A.
  I am way too familiar with mum guilt and academic guilt!
- B.
  I remind myself of the joy my family and academic achievements bring.
- C.
  I practice mindfulness to stay grounded and forgive myself.
- D.
  I acknowledge the feeling, then focus on my strengths and resilience.
- E.
  I plan quality family time and set realistic academic goals.
10.
What's your approach to personal growth & development as a Mama on a scholarly journey?
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- A.
  I have a structured plan for self-improvement and personal development activities.
- B.
  I adapt my growth plans to my current academic and family situation.
- C.
  I find joy in learning new things and improving myself.
- D.
  I focus on being mindful and present in my personal development journey.
- E.
  To be honest, I need a new approach!
11.
How do you envision the optimal blend of your scholarly journey and family life?
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- A.
  A joyful harmony where I can thrive in my studies and as a parent.
- B.
  A mindful equilibrium where I'm fully present in both roles.
- C.
  A well-organised schedule where both my academic and family needs are met.
- D.
  A resilient approach where I adapt to the demands of both worlds.
- E.
  I'm too overwhelmed to see my vision clearly at the moment.

Quiz Outcomes

1.
Strategic Planner
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Your 'overwhelm-crushing' Scholarly Mama® superpower is being a Strategic Planner! I admire your ability to see the big picture and break it down into manageable steps. When you do tap into it, this trait is a powerful asset in your PhD journey, especially when also juggling family life. Here are some of the unique strengths of Strategic Planners: 1. Organised brilliance: You excel at creating detailed plans and timelines. You thrive on structure and are excellent at breaking down large tasks into manageable steps.2. Goal-oriented: You are driven by achieving objectives. You have a clear vision of your academic path and are adept at setting and meeting deadlines.However, Strategic Planners may sometimes struggle with the following:1. Flexibility challenges: While your planning skills are outstanding, you may occasionally struggle when unexpected changes occur. Over-reliance on a rigid plan can lead to stress in dynamic academic environments.2. Burnout risk: The pressure to adhere strictly to their plans may result in burnout. It may be helpful to consider adaptive planning and self-care strategies.Three additional tips to help you reduce the overwhelm of PhD motherhood and infuse even more meaning and purpose into this journey...1. Practice Self-Compassion:Mama, recognise that you are human, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend in a similar situation. 2. Seek Support:Whether it's a mentor, a support group, or a therapist, surround yourself with individuals who can provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. You don't have to go through this journey alone.3. Prioritise Self-CareMake time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Rest, exercise, meditation, or simply taking a break can help you recharge and approach challenges with renewed energy and clarity.Wait a minute, let me introduce myself...Hello, Mama! I’m Dr Michelle Gibbs, your fabulous Scholarly Mama® coach.I'm the Founder of Mrs Mummy PhD®, Doodle Dozen® and Scholarly Mamas®. I am married to my high-school sweetheart and together we have three boys, ranging from teen to toddler! Believe me, I know a thing or two about navigating the Scholarly Mama® journey with kids in tow! I went from an overwhelmed new Mama living deadline to deadline and trying to juggle it all, to a purposeful Scholarly Mama® with 5 degrees (including my PhD), a healthcare professional career, and a family life I love, all without losing myself in the process.I created my platform to encourage ambitious Mamas who are chasing big life and academic goals with real grit and determination. However, I want to offer you a purposeful reframe so you finish well!As Scholarly Mamas®, not only do we wear many hats, juggling marriage/relationships, motherhood, careers and scholarly pursuits, but I believe we also need to challenge the academic culture of overwork and burnout by prioritising what matters, savouring the moments and living purposefully.I want to help you embrace the power of combining intellectual discovery, purposeful living and value alignment to empower you to seek purpose over prestige, perfection, or anything else getting in the way of your well-being and wholeness...Being married, having three kids and navigating academic motherhood, I know just how hard this juggle can be. Maybe you think it’s impossible to lead a fulfilling life while doing this juggling act. Or you might just not feel like you have the time to do the inner work required.Whatever your roadblocks are, I want you to believe that this is possible for you too. Mama, your purposeful work matters!I want to help you turn your juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming! So here’s a special invitation just for you!I'm personally inviting you to our brand new Scholarly Mamas® community. As a Scholarly Mama® myself, I love learning new things but I value meaningful relationships even more than that. So I've created the space that I wish I had when I began my own Scholarly Mama® journey. Through this amazing community, you'll have the opportunity to build lasting connections with other purposeful Scholarly Mamas®, which I am sure you would agree... is priceless. Although the Scholarly Mamas® is still a new and evolving space, my vision is that this unique space will support Mamas on academic journeys like you, in reaching your life and scholarly goals, without sacrificing what matters! You can get started for FREE inside our Scholarly Mamas® EXPLORE community. Once inside, you'll get access to our 'Mamanars' and Challenges, Mini-Resource Library, 30-day Self-care Challenge and Conversations with like-minded Mamas. You'll also learn more about our purposeful co-working space (via Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS), and our 1:1 coaching services (via Scholarly Mamas® OPTIMUM).You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this movement. Join us on the inside today!Mama, are you in? Fabulous! Let's begin... These are our journeys of becoming!What to do next?I’d love to stay in touch with you. Here are a few ways we can connect:1. On the blog: Let's replace overwhelm with fulfilment on your journeys of becoming a smart, purposeful Scholarly Mama®.2. Via my Mrs Mummy PhD® podcast: Let's spend some time together in meaningful, thought-provoking convos about what it means to be a purposeful Scholarly Mama®! Listen in wherever you usually get your podcasts. 3. Through social media @mrsmummyphd: Jump in at any point for relatable, inspiring content with a sprinkle of humour or just stop by to say "hi" :-)4. Join us inside one of our Scholarly Mamas® spaces: Mama, let's help you navigate your scholarly journey well, without sacrificing what matters! It's time to transform the juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming by making it simpler, easier and more enjoyable, and having access to a space where honest conversation, authentic connection and holistic growth can happen. Join us inside!What else can I say? I just can’t get enough of you! So don’t be surprised to see me in your inbox telling you how I chose purpose over perfection and prestige to become a purposefully whole Scholarly Mama®!
2.
Resilient Researcher
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Your 'overwhelm-crushing' Scholarly Mama® superpower is being a Resilient Researcher! I'm inspired by your tenacity and ability to bounce back from setbacks. This resilience is crucial when facing the challenges of a PhD with kids. Here are some of the unique strengths of Resilient Researchers: 1. Adaptability: You embrace change and uncertainty. You thrive in the face of challenges and setbacks, bouncing back with newfound determination.2. Curiosity and innovation: You are a natural researcher, always seeking new perspectives and innovative solutions. You can turn obstacles into opportunities.However, Resilient Researchers may sometimes struggle with the following:1. Time management: With a tendency to get absorbed in the depth of their research, you may struggle with time management. You may want to consider strategies to balance exploration with task prioritisation.2. Communication challenges: Communicating complex ideas effectively can be a hurdle at times. You may want to focus on honing your presentation and writing skills.Three additional tips to help you reduce the overwhelm of PhD motherhood and infuse even more meaning and purpose into this journey...1. Practice Self-Compassion:Mama, recognise that you are human, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend in a similar situation. 2. Seek Support:Whether it's a mentor, a support group, or a therapist, surround yourself with individuals who can provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. You don't have to go through this journey alone.3. Prioritise Self-CareMake time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Rest, exercise, meditation, or simply taking a break can help you recharge and approach challenges with renewed energy and clarity.Wait a minute, let me introduce myself...Hello, Mama! I’m Dr Michelle Gibbs, your fabulous Scholarly Mama® coach.I'm the Founder of Mrs Mummy PhD®, Doodle Dozen® and Scholarly Mamas®. I am married to my high-school sweetheart and together we have three boys, ranging from teen to toddler! Believe me, I know a thing or two about navigating the Scholarly Mama® journey with kids in tow! I went from an overwhelmed new Mama living deadline to deadline and trying to juggle it all, to a purposeful Scholarly Mama® with 5 degrees (including my PhD), a healthcare professional career, and a family life I love, all without losing myself in the process.I created my platform to encourage ambitious Mamas who are chasing big life and academic goals with real grit and determination. However, I want to offer you a purposeful reframe so you finish well!As Scholarly Mamas®, not only do we wear many hats, juggling marriage/relationships, motherhood, careers and scholarly pursuits, but I believe we also need to challenge the academic culture of overwork and burnout by prioritising what matters, savouring the moments and living purposefully.I want to help you embrace the power of combining intellectual discovery, purposeful living and value alignment to empower you to seek purpose over prestige, perfection, or anything else getting in the way of your well-being and wholeness...Being married, having three kids and navigating academic motherhood, I know just how hard this juggle can be. Maybe you think it’s impossible to lead a fulfilling life while doing this juggling act. Or you might just not feel like you have the time to do the inner work required.Whatever your roadblocks are, I want you to believe that this is possible for you too. Mama, your purposeful work matters!I want to help you turn your juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming! So here’s a special invitation just for you!I'm personally inviting you to our brand new Scholarly Mamas® community. As a Scholarly Mama® myself, I love learning new things but I value meaningful relationships even more than that. So I've created the space that I wish I had when I began my own Scholarly Mama® journey. Through this amazing community, you'll have the opportunity to build lasting connections with other purposeful Scholarly Mamas®, which I am sure you would agree... is priceless. Although the Scholarly Mamas® is still a new and evolving space, my vision is that this unique space will support Mamas on academic journeys like you, in reaching your life and scholarly goals, without sacrificing what matters! You can get started for FREE inside our Scholarly Mamas® EXPLORE community. Once inside, you'll get access to our 'Mamanars' and Challenges, Mini-Resource Library, 30-day Self-care Challenge and Conversations with like-minded Mamas. You'll also learn more about our purposeful co-working space (via Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS), and our 1:1 coaching services (via Scholarly Mamas® OPTIMUM).You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this movement. Join us on the inside today!Mama, are you in? Fabulous! Let's begin... These are our journeys of becoming!What to do next?I’d love to stay in touch with you. Here are a few ways we can connect:1. On the blog: Let's replace overwhelm with fulfilment on your journeys of becoming a smart, purposeful Scholarly Mama®.2. Via my Mrs Mummy PhD® podcast: Let's spend some time together in meaningful, thought-provoking convos about what it means to be a purposeful Scholarly Mama®! Listen in wherever you usually get your podcasts. 3. Through social media @mrsmummyphd: Jump in at any point for relatable, inspiring content with a sprinkle of humour or just stop by to say "hi" :-)4. Join us inside one of our Scholarly Mamas® spaces: Mama, let's help you navigate your scholarly journey well, without sacrificing what matters! It's time to transform the juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming by making it simpler, easier and more enjoyable, and having access to a space where honest conversation, authentic connection and holistic growth can happen. Join us inside!What else can I say? I just can’t get enough of you! So don’t be surprised to see me in your inbox telling you how I chose purpose over perfection and prestige to become a purposefully whole Scholarly Mama®!
3.
Joyful Juggler
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Your 'overwhelm-crushing' Scholarly Mama® superpower is being a Joyful Juggler! I love your positive energy and how you find joy in the chaos of juggling a PhD and family. Embracing this joy can make your academic journey more fulfilling.Here are some of the unique strengths of Joyful Jugglers: 1. Multitasking mastery: You effortlessly handle multiple responsibilities. You find joy in juggling academic pursuits, family life, and personal interests.2. Positive energy: Your enthusiasm is contagious. You infuse optimism into your academic and personal spheres, creating a supportive environment.However, Joyful Jugglers may sometimes struggle with the following:1. Boundary blurring: The challenge lies in creating clear boundaries between various aspects of life. You may wish to consider establishing and maintaining boundaries to enhance your overall well-being.2. Potential overcommitment: You may risk taking on too much. You may wish to consider your limits and practice making more strategic choices.Three additional tips to help you reduce the overwhelm of PhD motherhood and infuse even more meaning and purpose into this journey...1. Practice Self-Compassion:Mama, recognise that you are human, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend in a similar situation. 2. Seek Support:Whether it's a mentor, a support group, or a therapist, surround yourself with individuals who can provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. You don't have to go through this journey alone.3. Prioritise Self-CareMake time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Rest, exercise, meditation, or simply taking a break can help you recharge and approach challenges with renewed energy and clarity.Wait a minute, let me introduce myself...Hello, Mama! I’m Dr Michelle Gibbs, your fabulous Scholarly Mama® coach.I'm the Founder of Mrs Mummy PhD®, Doodle Dozen® and Scholarly Mamas®. I am married to my high-school sweetheart and together we have three boys, ranging from teen to toddler! Believe me, I know a thing or two about navigating the Scholarly Mama® journey with kids in tow! I went from an overwhelmed new Mama living deadline to deadline and trying to juggle it all, to a purposeful Scholarly Mama® with 5 degrees (including my PhD), a healthcare professional career, and a family life I love, all without losing myself in the process.I created my platform to encourage ambitious Mamas who are chasing big life and academic goals with real grit and determination. However, I want to offer you a purposeful reframe so you finish well!As Scholarly Mamas®, not only do we wear many hats, juggling marriage/relationships, motherhood, careers and scholarly pursuits, but I believe we also need to challenge the academic culture of overwork and burnout by prioritising what matters, savouring the moments and living purposefully.I want to help you embrace the power of combining intellectual discovery, purposeful living and value alignment to empower you to seek purpose over prestige, perfection, or anything else getting in the way of your well-being and wholeness...Being married, having three kids and navigating academic motherhood, I know just how hard this juggle can be. Maybe you think it’s impossible to lead a fulfilling life while doing this juggling act. Or you might just not feel like you have the time to do the inner work required.Whatever your roadblocks are, I want you to believe that this is possible for you too. Mama, your purposeful work matters!I want to help you turn your juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming! So here’s a special invitation just for you!I'm personally inviting you to our brand new Scholarly Mamas® community. As a Scholarly Mama® myself, I love learning new things but I value meaningful relationships even more than that. So I've created the space that I wish I had when I began my own Scholarly Mama® journey. Through this amazing community, you'll have the opportunity to build lasting connections with other purposeful Scholarly Mamas®, which I am sure you would agree... is priceless. Although the Scholarly Mamas® is still a new and evolving space, my vision is that this unique space will support Mamas on academic journeys like you, in reaching your life and scholarly goals, without sacrificing what matters! You can get started for FREE inside our Scholarly Mamas® EXPLORE community. Once inside, you'll get access to our 'Mamanars' and Challenges, Mini-Resource Library, 30-day Self-care Challenge and Conversations with like-minded Mamas. You'll also learn more about our purposeful co-working space (via Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS), and our 1:1 coaching services (via Scholarly Mamas® OPTIMUM).You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this movement. Join us on the inside today!Mama, are you in? Fabulous! Let's begin... These are our journeys of becoming!What to do next?I’d love to stay in touch with you. Here are a few ways we can connect:1. On the blog: Let's replace overwhelm with fulfilment on your journeys of becoming a smart, purposeful Scholarly Mama®.2. Via my Mrs Mummy PhD® podcast: Let's spend some time together in meaningful, thought-provoking convos about what it means to be a purposeful Scholarly Mama®! Listen in wherever you usually get your podcasts. 3. Through social media @mrsmummyphd: Jump in at any point for relatable, inspiring content with a sprinkle of humour or just stop by to say "hi" :-)4. Join us inside one of our Scholarly Mamas® spaces: Mama, let's help you navigate your scholarly journey well, without sacrificing what matters! It's time to transform the juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming by making it simpler, easier and more enjoyable, and having access to a space where honest conversation, authentic connection and holistic growth can happen. Join us inside!What else can I say? I just can’t get enough of you! So don’t be surprised to see me in your inbox telling you how I chose purpose over perfection and prestige to become a purposefully whole Scholarly Mama®!
4.
Mindful Maven
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Your 'overwhelm-crushing' Scholarly Mama® superpower is being a Mindful Maven! I respect your focus on personal growth and wellness amidst the demands of academia and motherhood. This mindfulness is key to a balanced life. Here are some of the unique strengths of Mindful Mavens: 1. Self-awareness: You are in tune with your emotions and stressors. You approach challenges with a calm and focused mindset, practising mindfulness to navigate your journey.2. Well-being advocates: You prioritise your self-care and mental health. You understand the importance of harmony and strive for holistic success.However, Mindful Mavens may sometimes struggle with the following:1. Decision paralysis: The emphasis on mindfulness may lead to overthinking, making decision-making a slow process. You may wish to consider strategies for effective decision-making without compromising mindfulness.2. Handling external pressures: You might sometimes find it challenging to deal with external pressures. You may wish to consider building resilience and coping mechanisms for external demands.Three additional tips to help you reduce the overwhelm of PhD motherhood and infuse even more meaning and purpose into this journey...1. Practice Self-Compassion:Mama, recognise that you are human, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend in a similar situation. 2. Seek Support:Whether it's a mentor, a support group, or a therapist, surround yourself with individuals who can provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. You don't have to go through this journey alone.3. Prioritise Self-CareMake time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Rest, exercise, meditation, or simply taking a break can help you recharge and approach challenges with renewed energy and clarity.Wait a minute, let me introduce myself...Hello, Mama! I’m Dr Michelle Gibbs, your fabulous Scholarly Mama® coach.I'm the Founder of Mrs Mummy PhD®, Doodle Dozen® and Scholarly Mamas®. I am married to my high-school sweetheart and together we have three boys, ranging from teen to toddler! Believe me, I know a thing or two about navigating the Scholarly Mama® journey with kids in tow! I went from an overwhelmed new Mama living deadline to deadline and trying to juggle it all, to a purposeful Scholarly Mama® with 5 degrees (including my PhD), a healthcare professional career, and a family life I love, all without losing myself in the process.I created my platform to encourage ambitious Mamas who are chasing big life and academic goals with real grit and determination. However, I want to offer you a purposeful reframe so you finish well!As Scholarly Mamas®, not only do we wear many hats, juggling marriage/relationships, motherhood, careers and scholarly pursuits, but I believe we also need to challenge the academic culture of overwork and burnout by prioritising what matters, savouring the moments and living purposefully.I want to help you embrace the power of combining intellectual discovery, purposeful living and value alignment to empower you to seek purpose over prestige, perfection, or anything else getting in the way of your well-being and wholeness...Being married, having three kids and navigating academic motherhood, I know just how hard this juggle can be. Maybe you think it’s impossible to lead a fulfilling life while doing this juggling act. Or you might just not feel like you have the time to do the inner work required.Whatever your roadblocks are, I want you to believe that this is possible for you too. Mama, your purposeful work matters!I want to help you turn your juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming! So here’s a special invitation just for you!I'm personally inviting you to our brand new Scholarly Mamas® community. As a Scholarly Mama® myself, I love learning new things but I value meaningful relationships even more than that. So I've created the space that I wish I had when I began my own Scholarly Mama® journey. Through this amazing community, you'll have the opportunity to build lasting connections with other purposeful Scholarly Mamas®, which I am sure you would agree... is priceless. Although the Scholarly Mamas® is still a new and evolving space, my vision is that this unique space will support Mamas on academic journeys like you, in reaching your life and scholarly goals, without sacrificing what matters! You can get started for FREE inside our Scholarly Mamas® EXPLORE community. Once inside, you'll get access to our 'Mamanars' and Challenges, Mini-Resource Library, 30-day Self-care Challenge and Conversations with like-minded Mamas. You'll also learn more about our purposeful co-working space (via Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS), and our 1:1 coaching services (via Scholarly Mamas® OPTIMUM).You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this movement. Join us on the inside today!Mama, are you in? Fabulous! Let's begin... These are our journeys of becoming!What to do next?I’d love to stay in touch with you. Here are a few ways we can connect:1. On the blog: Let's replace overwhelm with fulfilment on your journeys of becoming a smart, purposeful Scholarly Mama®.2. Via my Mrs Mummy PhD® podcast: Let's spend some time together in meaningful, thought-provoking convos about what it means to be a purposeful Scholarly Mama®! Listen in wherever you usually get your podcasts. 3. Through social media @mrsmummyphd: Jump in at any point for relatable, inspiring content with a sprinkle of humour or just stop by to say "hi" :-)4. Join us inside one of our Scholarly Mamas® spaces: Mama, let's help you navigate your scholarly journey well, without sacrificing what matters! It's time to transform the juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming by making it simpler, easier and more enjoyable, and having access to a space where honest conversation, authentic connection and holistic growth can happen. Join us inside!What else can I say? I just can’t get enough of you! So don’t be surprised to see me in your inbox telling you how I chose purpose over perfection and prestige to become a purposefully whole Scholarly Mama®!
5.
Overwhelmed Overcomer
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Your 'overwhelm-crushing' Scholarly Mama® superpower is being an Overwhelmed Overcomer! I recognise the immense challenges you are facing in your pursuit of academic excellence while also being a mother. The constant juggling of responsibilities can feel like an uphill battle, leaving you drained and overwhelmed. I get it.Here are some of the struggles of Overwhelmed Overcomers:1. Burnout and Exhaustion: You often find yourself stretched thin, trying to meet deadlines, attend to your family's needs, and maintain a work-life blend. The constant stress and lack of rest can lead to physical and mental exhaustion.2. Imposter Syndrome: Despite your achievements, you may doubt your abilities and feel like a fraud, questioning whether you truly belong in academia or if you're a good enough mother.3. Difficulty Prioritising: With so many demands on your time and energy, it can be challenging to determine what tasks or responsibilities should take precedence, leading to a sense of being pulled in multiple directions.However, Overwhelmed Overcomers also possesses unique strengths:1. Resilience: Despite the struggles, you possess an inner strength and determination to keep pushing forward, even when the path seems arduous.2. Empathy: Your experiences have cultivated a deep understanding and compassion for others facing similar challenges, making you a valuable source of support.Three additional tips to help you reduce the overwhelm of PhD motherhood and infuse even more meaning and purpose into this journey...1. Practice Self-Compassion:Mama, recognise that you are human, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend in a similar situation. 2. Seek Support:Whether it's a mentor, a support group, or a therapist, surround yourself with individuals who can provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. You don't have to go through this journey alone.3. Prioritise Self-CareMake time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Rest, exercise, meditation, or simply taking a break can help you recharge and approach challenges with renewed energy and clarity.Wait a minute, let me introduce myself...Hello, Mama! I’m Dr Michelle Gibbs, your fabulous Scholarly Mama® coach.I'm the Founder of Mrs Mummy PhD®, Doodle Dozen® and Scholarly Mamas®. I am married to my high-school sweetheart and together we have three boys, ranging from teen to toddler! Believe me, I know a thing or two about navigating the Scholarly Mama® journey with kids in tow! I went from an overwhelmed new Mama living deadline to deadline and trying to juggle it all, to a purposeful Scholarly Mama® with 5 degrees (including my PhD), a healthcare professional career, and a family life I love, all without losing myself in the process.I created my platform to encourage ambitious Mamas who are chasing big life and academic goals with real grit and determination. However, I want to offer you a purposeful reframe so you finish well!As Scholarly Mamas®, not only do we wear many hats, juggling marriage/relationships, motherhood, careers and scholarly pursuits, but I believe we also need to challenge the academic culture of overwork and burnout by prioritising what matters, savouring the moments and living purposefully.I want to help you embrace the power of combining intellectual discovery, purposeful living and value alignment to empower you to seek purpose over prestige, perfection, or anything else getting in the way of your well-being and wholeness...Being married, having three kids and navigating academic motherhood, I know just how hard this juggle can be. Maybe you think it’s impossible to lead a fulfilling life while doing this juggling act. Or you might just not feel like you have the time to do the inner work required.Whatever your roadblocks are, I want you to believe that this is possible for you too. Mama, your purposeful work matters!I want to help you turn your juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming! So here’s a special invitation just for you!I'm personally inviting you to our brand new Scholarly Mamas® community. As a Scholarly Mama® myself, I love learning new things but I value meaningful relationships even more than that. So I've created the space that I wish I had when I began my own Scholarly Mama® journey. Through this amazing community, you'll have the opportunity to build lasting connections with other purposeful Scholarly Mamas®, which I am sure you would agree... is priceless. Although the Scholarly Mamas® is still a new and evolving space, my vision is that this unique space will support Mamas on academic journeys like you, in reaching your life and scholarly goals, without sacrificing what matters! You can get started for FREE inside our Scholarly Mamas® EXPLORE community. Once inside, you'll get access to our 'Mamanars' and Challenges, Mini-Resource Library, 30-day Self-care Challenge and Conversations with like-minded Mamas. You'll also learn more about our purposeful co-working space (via Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS), and our 1:1 coaching services (via Scholarly Mamas® OPTIMUM).You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this movement. Join us on the inside today!Mama, are you in? Fabulous! Let's begin... These are our journeys of becoming!What to do next?I’d love to stay in touch with you. Here are a few ways we can connect:1. On the blog: Let's replace overwhelm with fulfilment on your journeys of becoming a smart, purposeful Scholarly Mama®.2. Via my Mrs Mummy PhD® podcast: Let's spend some time together in meaningful, thought-provoking convos about what it means to be a purposeful Scholarly Mama®! Listen in wherever you usually get your podcasts. 3. Through social media @mrsmummyphd: Jump in at any point for relatable, inspiring content with a sprinkle of humour or just stop by to say "hi" :-)4. Join us inside one of our Scholarly Mamas® spaces: Mama, let's help you navigate your scholarly journey well, without sacrificing what matters! It's time to transform the juggle-struggle into your purposeful journeys of becoming by making it simpler, easier and more enjoyable, and having access to a space where honest conversation, authentic connection and holistic growth can happen. Join us inside!What else can I say? I just can’t get enough of you! So don’t be surprised to see me in your inbox telling you how I chose purpose over perfection and prestige to become a purposefully whole Scholarly Mama®!