The Mother's Guide to Self-Renewal

May 15, 2007
While motherhood may be the most important job in the world, it's also an incredibly difficult one, demanding a woman's heart, soul, time, and focus. Both of these books aim to help moms reclaim that sense of self that can easily erode in the face of their work. Professional life coaches Jay and Kovarick (cofounders, Empowered Motherhood) instruct mothers-to-be on detailing personal visions and models of motherhood. Work sheets and fill-in-the-blank lists abound, as do helpful lessons such as showing gratitude in all things, asking for one's wants, and remembering there are always choices.Work/life balance coach Trudeau addresses mothers of babies and small children with a month-by-month approach whereby a new mother can concentrate on one theme at a time. Topics include caring for oneself, developing a personal support system, learning that good is good enough, and reclaiming adventure in life. Readers will feel soothed, comforted, and empowered. While both books overlap in content, the former requires a diligent commitment while the latter supplies a retreat. Trudeau's is preferred and recommended for most public libraries.

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