What happens when an ambitious career woman becomes a mother and discovers the impossible standards society places on working mums? Katie Powsey's story of burnout, health crisis and eventual transformation offers powerful insights for women struggling to balance professional aspirations with family life.

Katie's journey began when she returned to her corporate job after maternity leave, determined to maintain her pre-motherhood work ethic while being a present parent. This impossible standard led to constant guilt– feeling she was letting colleagues down when caring for a sick child or missing precious milestones at home when focused on work. The stress eventually manifested physically as mini-strokes that she dangerously dismissed until remembering her aunt had died from a stroke at 43, leaving behind a teenager.

This wake-up call prompted Katie to prioritise her health by abandoning her career completely, only to discover this created a new problem. While physically better, she felt mentally worse without the purpose and fulfillment her professional identity provided. This revelation sparked her coaching practice "Success Without Guilt," built around a powerful truth: happiness comes not from choosing between career and motherhood but from finding sustainable ways to honor both without the crushing weight of perpetual guilt.

Katie shares how authenticity became her path forward, letting go of the polished facade of perfection and openly acknowledging her struggles. This shift from "I've got it all together" to "I'm figuring it out too" not only improved her wellbeing but created deeper connections with others facing similar challenges. She offers practical wisdom on establishing boundaries that allow full presence in each role, embracing life transitions as opportunities to create new versions of ourselves, and using journaling to reconnect with our authentic selves.

Ready to pursue success without the constant companion of guilt? Connect with Katie at kplifecoaching.co.uk and discover how aligning with your true values can transform your experience as a working mother.

Connect with Katie Here:

kplifecoaching.co.uk

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Jenny Williams

Consultant for Calm- Helping You Find Calm in the Chaos

Founder of The Calm Collective & The Calm Connected.Host of the Unlock Your Happiness Series Podcast. Based in Kent, London & the South East, bringing women together through meaningful conversations and soulful networking. Mum, Wife & Freelancer: I’m navigating the chaos just like you, while learning to embrace the calm along the way.

Let’s connect, collaborate & create more space for YOU.

You can find me here: www.jennywilliamsconsulting.com
Instagram: @jennywilliams_consulting
LinkedIn: Jenny Williams
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If you would like to be a guest on the podcast please go to the website and apply online.

Sending Love & Stay Happy x