Focus on Evolving

My son Eddie turned 20 this week. Holly is 22. Just like that, I’m no longer the mum of teenagers. It’s a profound shift; one that brings both pride and poignancy. The teenage years, with their constant reminders and gentle (and not so gentle) nudges, are behind us. Now, my role is quieter, more advisory and only when invited. It’s a lesson in restraint: offering support without overstepping, sharing wisdom without sounding overbearing.

Parenting adult children means navigating new boundaries. They make their own choices now. Though, in truth, they’ve been doing that for years. Both are fiercely independent. Some decisions I celebrate; others I quietly worry about but I know it’s important for them to learn through their own experiences. In my coaching work, I’ve seen how clients grow when I listen more and speak less. The same principle applies to parenting. It’s about creating space for them to lead their lives authentically.

There’s a deeper connection forming between us now; one rooted in mutual respect rather than authority. Our conversations are more open and I often find myself learning from them. While I’ll always be their mum, how I show up for them has evolved and deepened. Parenting in adulthood is quieter but no less full of love.

This shift coincides with moving house so life feels especially full of change right now so I reminded myself to apply a lesson from my own book: Control the controllables! While navigating these life challenges, gracefully accept and liberate myself from what I can’t control to take control of what I can.

So as I reflect on this new chapter in my life, I’m reminded that parenting, like life, isn’t about staying the same, it’s about evolving. Letting go of what no longer fits and growing into new ways of being and doing so together.

Focus on Evolving. Focus on Why.

REFLECTION WITH ACTION: How are you evolving in this season of your life and what might that evolution be asking of you?