From Sheryl Sandberg to Marissa Mayer, women are not sacrificing themselves for their kids like they used to. Why? If you ask me, a confident and happy woman makes a better mother and role model. And whatever it takes to get her feeling that way should be done. But as a mother myself, I know how hard it is to maintain a sense of style, run a successful business and to feel like an okay parent all at the same time.
Women who are flawlessly manifesting this enchanting trifecta are the new wonder women of our times and they are my idols. So I got to wondering how they actually do it all and have it all. Is it really possible? Are they hiding something? Do they secretly never floss? I hope to answer these questions and to give the rest of us moms motivation to stay true to ourselves, live fulfilling lives and love our families as much as ever through interviews with moms who are already doing it.
If you know a woman who fits this mold, please share her info with me on Twitter @metromomclub
Wonder Mom #6: Ann Merrill
Ann has been designing, making and selling her creations since she was six years old. This innate need joined with an insatiable desire to impact the world for good fuels her vision today at BAREBONES as VP of Product. Ann believes that the key to living an abundant, meaningful life is finding ways to incorporate passion, people and purpose into everything around her. The BAREBONES product line is an expression of beautifully designed goods paired with thoughtful features and durability intended to be enjoyed and cherished for a lifetime. Whether lighting a home in the Philippines, providing garden tools for a community in the Congo, or making an afternoon picnic perfect with a beautiful cooler, the BAREBONES experience inspires meaningful moments in life. And with six, yup count them, six, children, she is a zen master of motherhood and an amazing professional success.
How did you know that BAREBONES was the right job to run with?
While being an entrepreneur was a rewarding career and allowed me to provide for my family, I kept feeling a persistent need to impact the world in a more meaningful way. With BAREBONES I help provide dependable and well-designed goods that enrich the lives of everyone who uses them.
How has having a children transformed your lifestyle?
This new view of the world inspired me to give more, risk more and hope for more than I ever would have been able to for just myself. My hope is that by including them on my path, I will inspire them to be brave enough to find a life that they will love too.
How do you balance family and work?
I take care of needs as they arise and try to keep an overall balance. I don't over think small details and take opportunities to catch up on both family and work when I get them.
What time do you get up and go to bed on a typical day?
I get up around 7:30 am and go to bed around 12:30 (on a good day)
What do you typically eat for breakfast?
Probiotic yogurt followed promptly by a 20 oz coffee.
5 words to describe your personal sense of style?
Classic, Easy, Feminine, Iron-free and comfortable.
How do you find time to get ready and maintain your style?
My biggest goal when purchasing clothes is to find items that look good right out of a suitcase or a dryer.
What inspires you? (other than your children)
Seeing the need in another's life and being a part of filling that need.
Who are your role models and why?
Mother Theresa, and My Grandmother. They both inspire me to be a kind and giving person and take time for the little things in life that mean the most.
Any words that you live by?
"Don't make something unless it's both necessary and useful; but if it's both necessary and useful, don't hesitate to make it beautiful!"
What is your favorite thing to do with your children?
Feed them. Travel with them. Take walks with them.
What do you do to relax?
Walking in nature, cooking and long talks with my children.
What is something that you struggle with fitting in to your lifestyle and how do you deal with it? i.e. Do you make time for ALL of your yearly medical maintenance check-ups and dental cleanings? Or are you running on a 3 year old contact prescription and can't even find time to floss let alone go to the dentist?
I still struggle with making time for EXERCISE and MEDITATION. I love it when I find the time and commit but somehow I always fill my time with other things that seem more important. 2016??
Any advice for new moms, or moms who are struggling to make it all work?
Take your time and listen to your body and your heart. Everything will find its proper place when it's right.