When I was sitting down to write this blog, I was going to title it The Impossible Task. The truth is, living a beautiful and meaningful life is challenging, but very possible.
After several years on this journey, I have found a life of purpose and meaning. It's taken time, energy, and starting over many, many times.
These are the 11 steps I used to get here:
1. Acknowledge and Embrace Your Grief
The first step toward living a meaningful life after the loss of a child is to acknowledge and embrace your grief. Allow yourself to feel the full spectrum of emotions, from sadness to anger, guilt, and beyond. By honouring your emotions, you create a foundation for healing and growth.
2. Practice Self-Compassion
Treat yourself with the same compassion and care you would extend to a dear friend. Prioritize self-care, both physically and emotionally. Nourish your body, engage in regular exercise, and practice mindfulness to nurture your emotional well-being.
3. Explore Your Passions and Interests
Reconnect with the activities that once brought you joy and fulfillment. Engaging in hobbies, creative pursuits, and passions can help you rediscover a sense of purpose and allow your child's memory to be intertwined with activities that bring you happiness.
4. Create Rituals of Remembrance
Establish meaningful rituals or traditions in honour of your child's memory. Lighting a candle, visiting a special place, or celebrating significant dates can provide comfort and a sense of ongoing connection.
5. Connect with a Supportive Community
Seek out a community of fellow grieving mothers who understand your journey. Join support groups, online forums, or attend local gatherings to share experiences, offer support, and find solace in the shared language of loss. This is the community that I facilitate.
6. Build a New Relationship
Create a new relationship with your child. It sounds strange, but maintaining that connection is vital. Engage in conversations, reflect on cherished moments, and find solace in the presence of their memory. Allow their essence to guide you on your journey of healing and purpose.
7. Set Realistic Goals
Set achievable goals, both big and small, to provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. These goals can range from daily tasks to larger aspirations, giving you a roadmap for moving forward while honouring your child's memory.
8. Engage in Acts of Kindness
Channel your grief into acts of kindness and service. Volunteering or supporting causes that are meaningful can create a sense of purpose while fostering a positive impact on others. Helping others is very healing.
9. Seek Professional Guidance
Consider seeking guidance from grief professionals, therapists, or counsellors who specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of loss. Professional support can provide valuable tools and insights for coping and finding purpose.
10. Express Your Feelings Creatively
Expressing your emotions through creative outlets such as writing, art, music, or journaling can be cathartic. These outlets can serve as powerful ways to process your grief and connect with your child's spirit.
11. Practice Mindfulness and Presence
Embrace the practice of mindfulness to stay present in each moment. When grounding yourself in the here and now, you can create space for gratitude, connection, and an ongoing relationship with your child's spirit.
Grieving mothers can navigate their sorrow and channel their pain into a life that is rich in purpose and enduring connection.
Each step is a testament to the profound love that transcends time and guides the way toward a life that honours both the past and the future.
I hope this helps you find hope if you are new to this journey and gives you a helpful roadmap if you are ready to create meaning.
XO
Lisa
PS: If you are struggling with grief and child loss, the free video series (below) will be helpful. Each of these short videos will deliver small actions you can take to help you navigate this painful time You can request it here.
