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Motherhood Realized: An Inspiring Anthology for the Hardest Job You'll Ever Love
We believe that family life is beautiful and that motherhood is a privilege. But we also believe it is often really hard to see all that beauty when we're in the midst of mothering. So often, we feel like we're spread too thin. We feel like we don't match up. Our hearts want to do more than our hands can manage. And every day, as we cycle through household duties, discipline, errands, conversations, teaching, and hundreds of unexpecteds, we're often left tired, worried, and in need of some extra inspiration and encouragement.
Power of Moms is an online community of deliberate mothers. Since 2007, millions of mothers from all backgrounds who are striving to be the best they can be have gathered to our website to learn and grow together. Time and again, our posts receive comments that say something like, "I am going to print this out and put it on my nightstand so I can read it again and again." We've been concerned about those nightstands . . . getting all cluttered up with paper. So we've selected dozens of our most popular posts and compiled them neatly into this book just for you .
Becoming Our Best Selves
Getting Through Hard Times
Remembering the Meaning in Motherhood
Shifting Our Perspectives
Savoring the Moments
This book isn't just a book. It's a tangible representation of a living, breathing community of mothers. Motherhood is the hardest job we'll ever love, and it's so much better when we're doing it together.
Power of Moms is an online community of deliberate mothers. Since 2007, millions of mothers from all backgrounds who are striving to be the best they can be have gathered to our website to learn and grow together. Time and again, our posts receive comments that say something like, "I am going to print this out and put it on my nightstand so I can read it again and again." We've been concerned about those nightstands . . . getting all cluttered up with paper. So we've selected dozens of our most popular posts and compiled them neatly into this book just for you .
Becoming Our Best Selves
Getting Through Hard Times
Remembering the Meaning in Motherhood
Shifting Our Perspectives
Savoring the Moments
This book isn't just a book. It's a tangible representation of a living, breathing community of mothers. Motherhood is the hardest job we'll ever love, and it's so much better when we're doing it together.
204 pages, Paperback
First published April 8, 2014
14 people are currently reading
528 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 31, 2014
I didn't think I could love a book as much as the first Power of Moms publication, but I do. In this book are essays on the joy and the reality of motherhood. I love the honesty and reflection that truly ennoble me to be a more deliberate mother. This book champions mothers everywhere. It unites and strengthens us in a world where comparison, jealousy and judgment have been a thief of motherhood. Get your highlighter ready, because this will be a reference book for being a more conscious and loving mother.
March 20, 2014
Loved this book! As a mother who often finds it difficult to find the beauty in motherhood, I needed affirmation that I am not alone in my struggles. If you are looking for a book that helps you see the beautiful side of motherhood, (even when it may not always seem so beautiful!) this is your book. I absolutely loved the focus on "being the best you" without trying to be like any other mother. We have to acknowledge our strengths and focus on those. The "Good Mom" Redefined chapter was one of my favorites! It is refreshing to know that I can enjoy this time when my children are young and stop beating myself up about the bumps in the road. Clearly, from the stories shared in this anthology, I am not alone in this struggle, but with deliberate mothers to boost me up, I can pick my head up and keep trying to be the best ME.
March 20, 2014
I write and edit for this organization, Power of Moms, and this is a compilation of some of their "most read" and "most shared" posts from the website. I know I may be biased, but I really loved this book. Chapters are manageable for a busy mom--each one just takes a few minutes to read and each one is inspiring and encouraging, with fresh insights into motherhood that aren't just the "same old thing." This is totally the type of book you could have on your nightstand and read for a couple of minutes at night to unwind from a tough/busy day of life and motherhood.
Also, and this is only going to be of interest to family and friends--but I have two essays published in the book: one about my mother's battle with breast cancer and one about my tough first year as a mother. The authors are all just regular moms with stories and experiences to share.
Also, and this is only going to be of interest to family and friends--but I have two essays published in the book: one about my mother's battle with breast cancer and one about my tough first year as a mother. The authors are all just regular moms with stories and experiences to share.
February 5, 2015
A beautiful and inspiring look into motherhood through short stories and insights from mothers at various stages. So many parts I want to highlight and remember.
November 25, 2017
Apparently, I've been in need of a mothering pick-me-up this month. I've had this book sitting on my nightstand for years, borrowed from my very patient sister-in-law. I finally dusted it off and read it this month. I found some real nuggets of mothering inspiration in this book. And while it's not really groundbreaking, the comfort of reading words from other Mamas in the trenches lifted me up.
March 21, 2014
This book has essays about motherhood that are real, insightful, uplifting, and motivating. It is nice to know that there are others going through the same phases of motherhood, grappling with the same issues, wanting to be the best mom for their children, but having to constantly re-evaluate and change their perspective and methods to be that mom. This is worthwhile as a compilation of many voices that celebrate motherhood while keeping it real. A great resource for moms and families!
March 25, 2014
An inspiring, down to earth book about the wonderful, but difficult journey of motherhood. It will make you laugh and possibly cry. I love it because it is a compilation of essays from real Moms in the trenches who share experiences and inspiration. A great gift for anyone for Mother's day or a gift to yourself!
March 4, 2014
All mothers are looking for answers to many questions on many a hard day. This book is written by so many women who have been there, done that, and are such an inspiration to me. There is something in it for every mood of motherhood. I highly recommend it!
September 20, 2024
A collection of 50ish essays about motherhood. I am thinking these were probably all originally blog posts--but I'm not sure. I very much enjoyed this book and felt encouraged and inspired by it.
Read for the second time March 2019.
Read for the second time March 2019.
January 21, 2020
Motherhood can seem so lonely and also like you're never alone. It's easy to feel like you have no idea what you're doing, especially in our current world of Mommy Blogs and Pinterest and Instagram, where we only see what people want to share, but our brain often perceives this as someone's whole story - so we feel like we must be doing something wrong if that's not our whole story, right? This book is just a compilation of motivational or comforting essays taken from the Power of Moms blog. It's perfect for picking up and reading a 1 or 2 page little essay and being able to put back down, so probably an especially good read for new moms with tiny ones. The essays in here can help a struggling mom feel seen, heard, and understood.
I probably would have gotten the most out of this had I read it 5 or so years ago, when I had 2 tiny kids and was immersed in parenting blogs like Scary Mommy that just feed into these "Mommy Wars", but of course there are still times I struggle to feel like I'm doing enough, and a lot of these essays hit on that. We're all the world's okayest mom, right?
This is a good read for moms who need a boost from time to time (aka all of us), especially if they need the convenience of reading 1 or 2 pages at a time.
I probably would have gotten the most out of this had I read it 5 or so years ago, when I had 2 tiny kids and was immersed in parenting blogs like Scary Mommy that just feed into these "Mommy Wars", but of course there are still times I struggle to feel like I'm doing enough, and a lot of these essays hit on that. We're all the world's okayest mom, right?
This is a good read for moms who need a boost from time to time (aka all of us), especially if they need the convenience of reading 1 or 2 pages at a time.
January 21, 2018
Being a mother is a challenge. I like that this book addressed some of the issues I face. It’s hard to stay present and feel like enough. It’s hard to let the to do’s wait and get down and play with my kids. And honestly, I feel like they should be able to work and play alone at times. But it was a nice pick me up to realize I’m not alone and I shouldn’t compare my life with anyone else.
My favorite take away is invisible growth. Taking one kid to the store was so HARD. But now that I have three it seems like a breeze. I grew. But to anyone else it might seem invisible.
My favorite take away is invisible growth. Taking one kid to the store was so HARD. But now that I have three it seems like a breeze. I grew. But to anyone else it might seem invisible.
December 4, 2020
Highly recommend -- good nightstand companion for physically OR emotionally exhausted mothers. These are bite-size essays by some eloquent mommas, that to me felt like equal parts grace and growth, joy and pain. Reminders to slow down, to give space for imperfection, to be intentional, to breathe deeply, and to take all the moments in. (I can't recall the different sections, but I liked that it had them, as a way to pick and choose what you may need from one day to another.)
In reading this I feel more valued and less alone. What mother doesn't need that??
In reading this I feel more valued and less alone. What mother doesn't need that??
June 1, 2022
Motherhood has meaning beyond what the world can see.
What's YOUR definition of a good mom? What's getting in your way?
Focus on your strengths
Do what you love to do
How can you best remember how important you are- that your children want you?
Who are your cheerleaders, and what do they offer you?
Accept that accidents are going to happen, and accept the ups and downs as part of the growing process.
We are raising humans with their challenges= guiding them on the road to goodness.
Frazzled: ask what's important, prioritize, and drop what won't bless your family.
YES! Say yes to your children- let go of an agenda.
Ask yourself before you freakout:
Do I really want this to ruin my day?
Will saying hurtful things to my loved one change anything?
Have I made mistakes, how do I want to be treated when I make mistakes?
Will, I even remember this in 5 years? They might depend on how I treat them!
Take time for something you are grateful for each day.
Do a good news / bad news moment
Children who learn criticism and shame learn to condemn and feel quilty
Children who learn praise and acceptance learn to be appreciative and loving.
What's YOUR definition of a good mom? What's getting in your way?
Focus on your strengths
Do what you love to do
How can you best remember how important you are- that your children want you?
Who are your cheerleaders, and what do they offer you?
Accept that accidents are going to happen, and accept the ups and downs as part of the growing process.
We are raising humans with their challenges= guiding them on the road to goodness.
Frazzled: ask what's important, prioritize, and drop what won't bless your family.
YES! Say yes to your children- let go of an agenda.
Ask yourself before you freakout:
Do I really want this to ruin my day?
Will saying hurtful things to my loved one change anything?
Have I made mistakes, how do I want to be treated when I make mistakes?
Will, I even remember this in 5 years? They might depend on how I treat them!
Take time for something you are grateful for each day.
Do a good news / bad news moment
Children who learn criticism and shame learn to condemn and feel quilty
Children who learn praise and acceptance learn to be appreciative and loving.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2017
This book is pure comfort. It's made out of short essays or articles on the true challenges and rewards of motherhood. It's so uplifting and enlightening. The wisdom of it is that it's real and honest. Highly recommended.
October 16, 2017
I loved this book! Mothers shared experiences in short chapters perfect for picking up to read one or two when you only have a few minutes. It was inspiring and uplifting and helped me not take for granted the important role I have in my life as a mother.
January 21, 2018
Excellent. All moms should read this book. All to-be moms too.
March 17, 2018
I feel so much more normal and excepted as a mom after listening to this book now. And I’m looking forward to a lot of the stages that we have not yet experienced with our son!
April 28, 2016
First, I do not give 5-star book ratings lightly...like ever. Many would find this to be a 5-star book, I'm just super stingy with my stars!
[UPDATE: Changing my rating from 4 to 5 stars. The more I read, the more I realized this is a 5-star book. I'm three-quarters of the way through now and still really enjoying it. Most articles/chapters take about 5 minutes to read. OK, continue with original review...]
I am currently halfway through reading this book but I wanted to take the time to write a quick review to let others know how valuable this book has already been for me. I'm a mom, so it may take me a while to get through reading it all, but I didn't want you all to have to wait until I've finished to hear about it!
Power of Moms, the organization behind this book, is a wonderful online community with uplifting and practical advice and support for "deliberate" mothers--mothers who think critically about how they mother and try to give their best as often as possible (no one is perfect!). This book is a compilation of the best articles the Power of Moms community of mothers has shared online. Each chapter is one article, so they are very easy to read and finish in a short chunk of time (10 min or less). The articles/chapters are grouped into several, meaningful sections so you can jump around from section to section and read what interests you, or read the book from beginning to end.
As valuable as each article is, I think it's the questions and challenges listed at the end of each article that make the messages of this book stand out. So often I'm inspired by something I read...but I'm inspired only for a moment. Sometimes nothing changes in my life, even if change is what I had hoped for after finishing the article. At the end of each article in this book is a thought-provoking question to get you thinking about how the message of the article fits into your life. In addition to the question, there is also a "challenge" prompt that is meant to inspire you to take action and make a difference in your life in a meaningful way. Spend as much or as little time as you want (or have!) to consider the question and tackle the challenge.
This is not a "do this to be a great mom" or "don't to that" book. This is a supportive, loving, gently guiding book to help all of us moms appreciate everything we do do right, and see what things we can change, that we actually want to change, so that we can be even happier.
This is a great resource and I think all mothers would benefit from reading it...I plan on having my husband read it when I'm finished too!
*Note: I was given a free ebook version of this book for review purposes, but the opinions of the review are entirely my own.
[UPDATE: Changing my rating from 4 to 5 stars. The more I read, the more I realized this is a 5-star book. I'm three-quarters of the way through now and still really enjoying it. Most articles/chapters take about 5 minutes to read. OK, continue with original review...]
I am currently halfway through reading this book but I wanted to take the time to write a quick review to let others know how valuable this book has already been for me. I'm a mom, so it may take me a while to get through reading it all, but I didn't want you all to have to wait until I've finished to hear about it!
Power of Moms, the organization behind this book, is a wonderful online community with uplifting and practical advice and support for "deliberate" mothers--mothers who think critically about how they mother and try to give their best as often as possible (no one is perfect!). This book is a compilation of the best articles the Power of Moms community of mothers has shared online. Each chapter is one article, so they are very easy to read and finish in a short chunk of time (10 min or less). The articles/chapters are grouped into several, meaningful sections so you can jump around from section to section and read what interests you, or read the book from beginning to end.
As valuable as each article is, I think it's the questions and challenges listed at the end of each article that make the messages of this book stand out. So often I'm inspired by something I read...but I'm inspired only for a moment. Sometimes nothing changes in my life, even if change is what I had hoped for after finishing the article. At the end of each article in this book is a thought-provoking question to get you thinking about how the message of the article fits into your life. In addition to the question, there is also a "challenge" prompt that is meant to inspire you to take action and make a difference in your life in a meaningful way. Spend as much or as little time as you want (or have!) to consider the question and tackle the challenge.
This is not a "do this to be a great mom" or "don't to that" book. This is a supportive, loving, gently guiding book to help all of us moms appreciate everything we do do right, and see what things we can change, that we actually want to change, so that we can be even happier.
This is a great resource and I think all mothers would benefit from reading it...I plan on having my husband read it when I'm finished too!
*Note: I was given a free ebook version of this book for review purposes, but the opinions of the review are entirely my own.
December 17, 2017
A book that you can pick up anytime to read short essays written by other mothers, when you need a dose of heartwarming reassurance.
October 16, 2014
This anthology features the best and most inspiring blog posts from Power of Moms. The essays were easy and quick to digest in a short sitting. Busy moms need books that they can read in 10 minute spurts.
I found myself laughing, and yes, actually tearing up, sometimes wanting to do both. The stories were encouraging, relatable, and touching. And I love that they are real stories from real women. These women are moms who have been around the block a few times as well; each mom seems to have a least four kids!
I also enjoyed that these real moms don't just leave you hanging at the end of each essay. Concluding each story is a reflection question and challenge that helps apply the lessons and ideas covered. This was really beneficial for the stories that really touched me and I wanted to ensure I would remember when I finished reading.
If you are mother of littles , this one is worth your time!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
I found myself laughing, and yes, actually tearing up, sometimes wanting to do both. The stories were encouraging, relatable, and touching. And I love that they are real stories from real women. These women are moms who have been around the block a few times as well; each mom seems to have a least four kids!
I also enjoyed that these real moms don't just leave you hanging at the end of each essay. Concluding each story is a reflection question and challenge that helps apply the lessons and ideas covered. This was really beneficial for the stories that really touched me and I wanted to ensure I would remember when I finished reading.
If you are mother of littles , this one is worth your time!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
March 17, 2014
I have been reading this book over the past week. I am part of a book launch team for it, and received a digital copy of it early. It is so wonderful!
The chapters are short "essays" on motherhood. Some of them have me nodding my head in complete agreement (did they have a fly on the wall of my home???), others have me laughing at the funny stories the moms tell (oh, can I ever relate). A couple of them have had me crying because the words touched my heart and reminded me that I am a doing a good job as a mom, and more importantly, that I am the right mom for my girls, and Heavenly Father is there to help me be better.
I like that each chapter is short. I don't feel like I have to read it all at once. It is more like heavenly little 3-5 minute breaks from the normal grind of things.
I think that as I read it again and again, different parts will jump out at me and be what I needed to read then. Such a great book for moms - it would be a wonderful Mother's Day gift too. :)
The chapters are short "essays" on motherhood. Some of them have me nodding my head in complete agreement (did they have a fly on the wall of my home???), others have me laughing at the funny stories the moms tell (oh, can I ever relate). A couple of them have had me crying because the words touched my heart and reminded me that I am a doing a good job as a mom, and more importantly, that I am the right mom for my girls, and Heavenly Father is there to help me be better.
I like that each chapter is short. I don't feel like I have to read it all at once. It is more like heavenly little 3-5 minute breaks from the normal grind of things.
I think that as I read it again and again, different parts will jump out at me and be what I needed to read then. Such a great book for moms - it would be a wonderful Mother's Day gift too. :)
March 22, 2014
Motherhood Realized is an encouraging read for mothers everywhere. The book is divided into 4 sections (all of which are topics moms need to read about!):
1. Becoming Our Best Selves
2. Getting Through Hard Times
3. Shifting Our Perspectives
4. Savoring Moments
The entire book is a collection of favorite posts that originally appeared on the Power of Moms blog. One thing I absolutely love about the book is that it is easily digestible. Moms are busy people, so it's hard to find time to read a long chapter in a book. Because this particular book is a collection of short (but powerful!) blog posts, the chapters are do-able for even the busiest of moms.
Each chapter concludes with a reflection question and a challenge to help moms apply the theme to their lives.
I have loved the Power of Moms blog for years, but if it's possible, I think I love this book even more. It's provided a one-stop-spot for some of the best posts about motherhood.
*I received this book for review, but all opinions are my own.
1. Becoming Our Best Selves
2. Getting Through Hard Times
3. Shifting Our Perspectives
4. Savoring Moments
The entire book is a collection of favorite posts that originally appeared on the Power of Moms blog. One thing I absolutely love about the book is that it is easily digestible. Moms are busy people, so it's hard to find time to read a long chapter in a book. Because this particular book is a collection of short (but powerful!) blog posts, the chapters are do-able for even the busiest of moms.
Each chapter concludes with a reflection question and a challenge to help moms apply the theme to their lives.
I have loved the Power of Moms blog for years, but if it's possible, I think I love this book even more. It's provided a one-stop-spot for some of the best posts about motherhood.
*I received this book for review, but all opinions are my own.
August 31, 2016
I have loved reading this book.
First of all, the format is great. There are 4 main sections each containing several short vignettes related to that topic. As a busy mom, I can seldom sit down and really read a book. Definitely not in a long sitting. With this book I feel like I can get a quick little dose of positive energy and not feel like the next time I go to read that I have to reread the last page or so to figure out where I am.
I also love that these are REAL stories from REAL moms trying to live in the same day to day REALITY as I am! Motherhood is the hardest and yet most wonderful job a woman can do. A little encouragement and support definitely makes that process so much sweeter. Motherhood Realized does just that. Even though I know none of these women in real life, I feel strength from their experiences and it helps me to be a better mother, wife, and person. I can't ask for anything more from a self-help book!
First of all, the format is great. There are 4 main sections each containing several short vignettes related to that topic. As a busy mom, I can seldom sit down and really read a book. Definitely not in a long sitting. With this book I feel like I can get a quick little dose of positive energy and not feel like the next time I go to read that I have to reread the last page or so to figure out where I am.
I also love that these are REAL stories from REAL moms trying to live in the same day to day REALITY as I am! Motherhood is the hardest and yet most wonderful job a woman can do. A little encouragement and support definitely makes that process so much sweeter. Motherhood Realized does just that. Even though I know none of these women in real life, I feel strength from their experiences and it helps me to be a better mother, wife, and person. I can't ask for anything more from a self-help book!
December 11, 2014
I love powerofmoms.com, and feel the same way about this book. This book is a compilation of some of the best essays on the website. I usually listen to the podcasts instead of reading the posts, so I hadn't read these before. It helps me slow down and enjoy the moments of motherhood when I read these beautiful stories and thoughts. There was one essay in particular that felt like my life in about four years from now. The oldest daughter in a family with 5 children (just like my family) was starting her junior year and preparing to leave home for college. Her mom was focusing on making her last couple of years at home count and making good memories as a family. It was an amazing gift to get a peak at what the future will feel like, and that really motivated me to start making the most out of moments now. Thank you Power of Moms authors for making me a better and happier mom.
March 17, 2014
What a wonderful book! This is EXACTLY what I needed. This book is a great reminder that I am a good Mom and encourages me to be better. I love that the chapters are short enough to read in about 5 minutes or less, because let's face it. As Mom's we don't always have large chunks of time dedicated to reading. I was able to read this book one or two chapters at a time as my schedule allowed. This book is written by Real mothers facing Real challenges just like me. It was nice to get some perspective from all the authors that contributed to this book. I have been following Power of Mom's for over a year now and LOVED their first book, Deliberate Motherhood. This one did not disappoint either. I would suggest this book to any mom, or dad, that is trying to be a better parent.
January 15, 2015
There were lots of good ideas and different ways of thinking about Motherhood. It helped me change my frame of mind and remember to slow down in the moments with my kids instead of getting stuck in tasks to be done and being on time. It might be hard to sit and read this type of book because it doesn't flow like a story. As I listened, I liked feeling like I was getting a mothers pep talk however I did NOT like the narrator. She seemed a little too stiff, grated on my nerves a bit and pronounced a few names of places incorrectly. There were several spots where the narrative repeated a sentence over again--almost like the person in charge of sound editing wasn't paying attention.
August 21, 2014
This book is a wonderful collection of short essays written by mothers, for mothers. I instantly felt a connection to each of the authors because they are each so REAL - sharing their ups and downs, frustrations, joys, the nitty-gritty, and ultimately the blessings of motherhood. I thought it was great that each essay ended with a question and a challenge -- a way to put into action the things that you have just learned & felt. Most of all I loved the constant theme and reminder throughout the book that motherhood is beautiful and important. It is work and it is absolutely worth it.
March 19, 2014
This book is very similar to the first Power of Moms book - Deliberate Motherhood. It is a collection of short (2-3 page) stories on motherhood. The reason I enjoy it is because it focuses on the good things/highlights of motherhood, while not making you feel bad that motherhood is HARD.
I also enjoyed it because there are little nuggets of wisdom throughout that you can use to apply to your family situation. And it helps you to feel that you are not along on this crazy journey. I am thankful that Power of Moms exists and is creating material that uplifts mothers.
I also enjoyed it because there are little nuggets of wisdom throughout that you can use to apply to your family situation. And it helps you to feel that you are not along on this crazy journey. I am thankful that Power of Moms exists and is creating material that uplifts mothers.
September 3, 2016
This book is very similar to the first Power of Moms book - Deliberate Motherhood. It is a collection of short (2-3 page) stories on motherhood. The reason I enjoy it is because it focuses on the good things/highlights of motherhood, while not making you feel bad that motherhood is HARD.
I also enjoyed it because there are little nuggets of wisdom throughout that you can use to apply to your family situation. And it helps you to feel that you are not along on this crazy journey. I am thankful that Power of Moms exists and is creating material that uplifts mothers
I also enjoyed it because there are little nuggets of wisdom throughout that you can use to apply to your family situation. And it helps you to feel that you are not along on this crazy journey. I am thankful that Power of Moms exists and is creating material that uplifts mothers
March 22, 2014
I love that this book challenges moms to break through the stereotypes and define—for ourselves—what a "good mother" is. In this modern culture of online interaction, it's become so easy to tear each other down rather than build up, encourage and support. This book empowers the mother to become "her" best self... the type of mother she truly wants to be, rather than what society expects her to be. This book offers the encouragement and practical approach to motherhood that I've come to expect from "Power of Moms".
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