#momlifechats with Dr. Christi Please ask your questions too!

A8 Thank you for that, and for the question. I honestly started my work because of all my difficult experiences. My youngest sister died of cancer when she was 8 and I was 18, I struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety with all four of my pregnancies, I've lost many family members and am now raising two adopted sons--6 kids total! Everything I overcame made me want to help others overcome too. I write and speak and teach about these things because I know how hard motherhood and life can be, and I also know some ways to make it a little easier. My tagline is "Overcoming. Becoming. Flourishing!" I know we can all do all three of these, with a little help. I hope to offer that help.

And as far as how I deal with stress, it's a constant battle for me, but I'm getting better. I exercise almost everyday--just 30 minutes, but it's crucial to my mental health. I prioritize sleep and take naps whenever I can. I make time each day for an "hour of power," including my exercise time, followed by meditation, prayer, and scripture study. All of these protect me against too much stress and help me stay more relaxed than I ever was when I was a younger mom. Then, I talk with my husband often about the kids, how I'm feeling, and what we can do to help each other. I also take "me time." THis is CRUCIAL for me! I even go away sometimes alone for a few days, to regroup, sleep! and refresh. Above all, I'd say whatever works for YOU is essential. Self-care is the way to health, happiness, and joy in motherhood, for sure!

@drchristihibbert, wow, it does sound like you flourished with everything life threw at you! Q9 Here's a great question from the community: How do you make sure you're sharing the love when you bring another baby home? How do you make sure you're there for your partner and also for your other children?

@drchristihibbert, awesome advice 😊

A9 I used to worry so much about this when I was pregnant with my second! I'd wonder, "How could I ever love another baby like I love my first?" But you do. And it's amazing how your love just grows and amplifies with other children and meaningful family relationships--as a mom of 6 I can say this for sure! What IS truly challenging is making time so everyone feels they're getting "enough" of you. It's important to also get some of yourself, too, so I suggest writing down your priorities--what matters most, in order of most important to least. Then, write down how much time you're willing to give to each thing each week (including work, relationships, the house cleaning, etc). Focus on getting your top three done everyday, and you will never feel like you're lacking. The house can be messy, especially if it means you played with your toddler and spent time with your spouse. Let go of what's not as important in favor of what IS. I love the saying, "Saying no to something is really saying 'Yes' to something better." Write this on your wall if you need to, but remember that a little of your time and attention, especially if it's full of love, goes a long, long way! One other suggestion for bringing another baby home: Give the older child a "gift" from the new baby. It's a great way for big bro/sis to start feeling like and love for their new sibling!

And thank you!!

@drchristihibbert, I love the inspiration. Thabk you for joining us tonight. I want to be a motivational public speaker one day. I grew up with my family and other telling me thats too big of a dream maybe you should try something else. Yet I have accomplished many of my goals and dreams thus far and have proved many wrong. Thank you so much for choosing me as a winner for your book. I look forward to reading it. Keep up your hard work and wow a mom of 6. you truly are awesome.

Congratulations @athomas ! Im so grateful to have been here and happy you won the book! Im living proof you can accomplish any dream, despite what life throws your way. You will do it if you really want it!! ❤️

I do. Just trying to figure out to start and which way to go