I used to think I had to speak up to belong.
For the introverted stepmom who feels overlooked in loud rooms—this post is a reflection on the power of deep listening, self-worth, and quiet connection.
Read MoreAs stepmoms, we're sometimes left to clean up a mess created by others, a mess we didn’t ask for or create.
We’re not recognized or appreciated for the sacrifices we make. Here's what I want you to know – in the end, we make a huge difference to those on the receiving end of our care.
How often have you put aside your personal interests and your time to nurture your marriage only to spend it consoling your stepchild because their other parent didn't show up when they were supposed to, made promises they didn't keep, or show no interest at all in what their child is doing? Times when you thought you were helping your stepchild only to realize they blamed you for their unhappiness and unease.
You're tagged as evil, crazy, overly demanding, unreasonable. You do your best only to be criticized or judged.
Here's the thing. Relationships change. They're filled with moments of joy and pain, happiness and sadness. They ebb and flow.
Nothing lasts forever and neither will these challenging times. It may take a few weeks, months and maybe years before you get any kind of appreciate for all you've done. And it may only be short lived.
Focus instead on knowing that you're doing the best you can, with the best intentions you have. Know in your heart you're doing what’s right rather than what’s easy. And notice those moments in your stepchild’s life when you can identify you had a positive impact in who they are today.
Are you in need of some self-care?
Sometimes, just taking a few minutes to focus on what you need can make a world of difference. I'd love to give you my FREE Ebook on Self-Care For Stepmoms.
In this ebook, you'll learn what self-care is all about, why it's important that you take the time to look after YOU, the most important place to start, and lots of tips and strategies to help you get started.
All you need to do is to fill in your name and current email and I'll send it to you immediately. It's that simply. Why not take the 15 seconds it will take to get you started on taking care of yourself.
Ready when you are.
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Why Caring For Yourself Transforms How You See Your Relationships, One STEP At A Time
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acceptance, appreciation, building relationships, connecting, stepchildren, stepmom, stepmom advice
The original content you just enjoyed is copyright protected by The Stepmom Coach—aka Claudette Chenevert—who proudly offers information, tips, products and other resources for building better relationships “one STEP at a time” via 1:1 coaching, self-guided coursework and more. Suitability is to be determined by individual users based on their own concerns and circumstances, as The Stepmom Coach does not endorse and is not liable for opinions expressed by third parties (i.e., advertisers, affiliates, audience members, clients).
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Mother’s Day as a Stepmom: Honoring Yourself Authentically
Mother’s Day can be an emotional rollercoaster for stepmoms. I still remember my very first one—hoping for a simple card, a small acknowledgment that I mattered. Instead, I got nothing. No mention, no nod, no recognition. And what stung the most? Someone else was acknowledged.
I didn’t speak up. I held back my feelings. And by the end of the day, I broke down in tears. My son, only a child, felt my sadness and acted out. Looking back, I realize I had placed expectations on people who barely knew me. I hadn’t yet found my place in the family, let alone earned the space to be celebrated.
Now, years later, I understand that Mother’s Day doesn’t have to fit into one mold. In this blog, I share what I’ve learned about honoring your role, setting boundaries, and creating celebrations that reflect you—not what others expect.
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