Podcast Episode #6
Unlocking Happiness: Practical Strategies for Working Moms
The Reality for Working Moms
Working moms are often stretched thin, juggling career demands, family needs, and the pressure to “do it all” without burning out. Positive psychology expert Tia Graham explains that happiness isn’t just a random emotion or a reward you earn after reaching a milestone, it’s something you can build intentionally through small, consistent choices.
Why “Chasing Happiness” Doesn’t Work
Tia highlights how many of us are taught to chase happiness through external wins like promotions, productivity, or buying something new. But those boosts tend to fade quickly, keeping us stuck on the “hedonic treadmill” where we’re always striving for the next thing. Add comparison and our brain’s natural negativity bias, and stress can easily overshadow joy unless we actively create space for well-being.
Three Practical Shifts You Can Start This Week
Prioritize your “meds.” Focus on meditation, movement, nourishing food, and adequate sleep, because these basics regulate your mood and make everything feel more manageable.
Protect human connection. Strong relationships are one of the biggest predictors of long-term happiness, and even short, intentional moments of presence with the people you love matter.
Build in “joy boosters.” Make time for small activities that genuinely light you up, like nature, music, learning something new, or any simple reset that brings you joy.
A More Sustainable Definition of Happiness
Tia’s message is reassuring: you don’t need to be happy all the time to live a good life. The goal is to create more moments of meaning, connection, and calm through habits that support your brain and body, especially in seasons that feel demanding.
HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE:
1️⃣ Stop outsourcing happiness to “someday.”
2️⃣ Treat self-care like a foundation, not a luxury.
3️⃣ Protect connection and add joy on purpose.
7 STEPS TO OVERCOME MOM GUILT
Grab the FREE 7 STEPS TO OVERCOMING MOM GUILT
This free resource will help you change your mindset and change how you plan your time.
“You are not stuck and you can increase your happiness and improve your well-being by understanding the science of happiness and applying it.”