The Motherhood Process

As we step into a new year, it’s natural to reflect on what we’re carrying with us—and what might be ready to be released. In this episode, Autumn Akins gently explores the idea that not everything that feels nostalgic is meant to stay.Through thoughtful reflection, Autumn invites listeners to consider how growth, motherhood, and intentional living can shift the way we view traditions, routines, and familiar choices. This conversation offers encouragement to evaluate what still aligns with your values today and to create space for what supports peace, clarity, and purpose in your current season.Rather than focusing on drastic change, this episode emphasizes discernment—learning to recognize when something no longer fits and giving yourself permission to choose differently, without guilt.What You’ll Hear:Why nostalgia can feel comforting, even when it no longer fits your life.How seasons of growth naturally reshape priorities and values.The importance of discernment when evaluating traditions and routines.Reflective questions to help you move into the new year with intention.Encouragement to honor who you are becoming, not just who you’ve been.Key Takeaways:Growth Brings Change: Outgrowing something is often a sign of healthy growth.Alignment Matters: Familiarity doesn’t always mean it belongs in your current season.Discernment Creates Peace: Thoughtful evaluation helps protect your energy and values.You’re Allowed to Evolve: Making space for change is part of intentional living.Reflection Prompt:What am I holding onto simply because it’s familiar—and what might feel lighter if I allowed it to evolve?Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

The holidays are meant to be joyful, but for many moms, they feel heavy, pressured, and overwhelming. In this episode, host Autumn Akins gently invites you to release the unrealistic expectations that often come with the season and embrace a slower, simpler approach to Christmas and beyond.Autumn speaks candidly about the invisible pressure placed on moms to make the holidays magical, memorable, and Pinterest-worthy—while still managing homes, schedules, emotions, and everything in between. She reminds listeners that our kids don’t need more traditions, more activities, or more perfection. They need our peace, our presence, and our ability to actually enjoy the season with them.This episode offers permission to let go of traditions that feel heavy, simplify routines without guilt, and create rhythms that protect your energy. With practical systems around meal planning, gift giving, and calendar boundaries, Autumn shows how simplicity doesn’t take away from the magic—it actually makes room for it. The heart of this conversation is clear: the most meaningful memories are often found in quiet moments, not crowded calendars.What You’ll Hear:The pressure moms feel to create a “magical” holiday season and why it often leads to burnout.How social media fuels unrealistic expectations during the holidays.Why kids need calm and presence more than elaborate traditions.Questions to ask yourself before committing to holiday traditions this season.Why it’s okay to pause or skip traditions that don’t fit your current season of life.Simple, low-effort ways Autumn creates meaningful moments at home with her family.Holiday systems that protect peace, including meal planning, gift boundaries, and daily rhythms.A powerful calendar filter: asking whether something adds peace or pressure.Permission to choose rest, simplicity, and presence over perfection.Key Takeaways:Peace Over Perfection: Your kids don’t need curated memories—they need a calm, present mom.Traditions Are Optional: If a tradition brings stress instead of joy, you’re allowed to let it go.Simple Is Still Special: Small, repeatable moments often become the most meaningful memories.Boundaries Create Freedom: Guarding your calendar and energy is an act of wisdom, not selfishness.This Season Matters Too: You don’t have to do it all for the holidays to be meaningful.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

Are you constantly saying yes only to look back on your week feeling tired, overwhelmed, and resentful? In this episode, host Autumn Akins walks through a powerful, real-time lesson she is learning: the importance of saying no more often.   Autumn dives into the common reasons why moms feel compelled to overcommit—from guilt and the fear of missing out to a simple craving for connection. She shares her own pattern of "one small yes" snowballing into an overstuffed week and offers a clear reminder: "Everything that you say yes to is a no to something else, usually your energy or your rest or your peace".   This episode is a gentle but firm guide to breaking the cycle of living in "reaction mode" and starting to live intentionally. Autumn provides five practical steps for strengthening your "no muscle," including setting weekly limits, pausing before you respond, and remembering that you are the one who carries the consequence of every overcommitment. The ultimate takeaway? You don't need a packed calendar to be a good, present mom—sometimes, the holiest thing you can do for your family is simply protect your peace.What You’ll Hear:Why "yes" often feels like a default for moms, driven by guilt, loneliness, or not wanting kids to miss out.  The difference between being a "good mom" and a "tired, stretched thin mom".  Autumn’s personal confession about how she over-fills her own week with things like quick grocery runs that turn into multi-store errands.  The reminder that saying yes to one thing means saying no to your peace, rest, or energy.  Why the "invisible race" to do the most is a myth with no prize for the winner.  Book recommendations that have shaped Autumn's perspective on slowing down: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry and Essentialism.  Signs that your "yes muscle" is overdeveloped, such as resenting plans or feeling tired before the day begins. How saying no more often surprisingly makes your life feel fuller, not emptier, because it creates space for presence and calm.Key Takeaways:Less but Better: This motto from Essentialism applies beautifully to motherhood, resulting in better energy and connection with those who matter most.  Protection is Power: Sometimes, the most important thing you can do for your family is simply protect your peace.  Your Value is Not Your Productivity: Stop living as if your value is tied to what you can produce.  The Holiday Challenge: Say no to one thing that drains you each week leading up to Christmas and watch the space it creates.Resources:The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComeEssentialism by Greg McKeownhttps://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, overstimulated, or unsure why your usual ways of recharging suddenly don’t work anymore, this episode is for you. Autumn opens up about a powerful truth many moms overlook: nothing is wrong with you — you’ve simply changed. And with a new season comes a new need for a different kind of rest.Drawing from Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith’s framework from Sacred Rest, Autumn walks through the seven types of rest every mom needs to understand, from physical and mental rest to the often-neglected creative and spiritual kinds. She shares personal stories about sleep deprivation, overstimulation, social burnout, emotional holding, and the shift that happens when you finally acknowledge what your mind and body have been asking for.This episode is a gentle reminder that rest is not a reward at the end of the week. It is a rhythm you build into your life so you can show up with presence, patience, and peace. When your season changes, your rest should too.What You’ll Hear:Why the old ways you used to recharge may no longer work in your current seasonAn introduction to the seven types of rest and how moms experience each one dailyReal examples from Autumn’s life about sleep patterns, overstimulation, and mental loadHow emotional rest can show up as honesty, grief, or dropping the maskThe importance of identifying whether you need solitude or supportThe role of creativity in restoring your joy and sense of selfWhy spiritual rest matters, including Autumn’s personal reflections on faith and growthHow to create a simple “rest menu” to help you choose the kind of support you needPractical ways to build rest into your day without waiting for burnoutKey Takeaways:Rest Evolves With You: When your season changes, your needs change. Rest is meant to adapt, not stay rigid.You Need More Than Sleep: Physical rest is just one type. Mental, sensory, emotional, social, creative, and spiritual rest are just as important.Overstimulation is Real: Silence, boundaries, and intentional slowing down matter more than ever in motherhood.Authenticity Brings Relief: Emotional rest comes from removing the pressure to appear put together.Connection Should Be Intentional: Choose relationships that fill rather than drain you, and honor your capacity week by week.A Rest Rhythm Prevents Burnout: Rest should be woven into your day, not something you turn to only when you’re depleted.Resources:Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith – Sacred Resthttps://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

If you're a homeschool mom feeling the burnout and hitting a wall a few months into the year, you are not alone. Autumn gets real about this common struggle, sharing her own experience navigating this phase while managing a growing family and a major shift in her family's daily rhythms.  This isn't an episode about powering through; it's about giving yourself permission to be human and recalibrate. Autumn offers practical strategies and heart-centered advice to help you refocus, including the non-negotiable importance of self-care, a powerful exercise to reconnect with your original "why" for homeschooling, and tips for simplifying your schedule and letting go of the comparison game. This conversation is an encouraging reminder that a loss of steam is not a failure, but an invitation to step back and ensure you're showing up with intention, not perfection.  What You’ll Hear:The personal rhythm shifts in the host's home that led to her own inconsistency and increased childcare burden.  Why the excitement and novelty of the school year eventually wears off and gives way to exhaustion.  The crucial importance of checking in with yourself physically and mentally, including water intake, meals, and the game-changing power of a morning routine.  The clarity you gain by revisiting your why for homeschooling—the values and goals that guided your original decision.  Practical ways to audit and simplify a too-full homeschool schedule by incorporating structured flexibility and eliminating unnecessary commitments.  How to combat the feelings of isolation and let go of comparison to the "perfect" homeschool families you see on social media.  Key Takeaways:Self-Care is Non-Negotiable: Your homeschool will never thrive if you are not taking care of yourself, because you simply cannot pour from an empty cup.  Recalibrate, Don't Quit: Losing steam is not a sign of failure; it is an invitation to step back and recalibrate your approach, not to give up on this meaningful path.  Be the Expert: Give yourself permission to adapt your curriculum. A good teacher doesn't follow a textbook cover-to-cover, and neither should you—pick and choose what is right for your children.  Connect Intentionally: Actively seek connection by joining homeschool groups or meetups to combat isolation.  Focus on Intention: You are already winning when you show up with intention, not perfection.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

Ever thought about how you could bring more peace and productivity to your life as a mom? In this episode of The Motherhood Process, I'm sharing a mindset shift that truly transformed my approach: treating motherhood like the job it is. Not in a cold, corporate way, but by applying the same intention, systems, and boundaries you would to any career you take seriously. I'll share my own journey from feeling overwhelmed by daily chaos to realizing that the routines we often see as "extras" are actually the backbone of a life that feels more present, peaceful, and productive. Whether you work inside or outside the home, this conversation is an encouraging reminder that setting up a system isn't about boxing you in—it's about freeing you up to do the parts of motherhood only you can do.What You’ll Hear:The mindset shift that helped me stop feeling so chaotic and start feeling productive.How a simple 15-minute daily cleaning system became a "game changer."My life-saving secret to simple meal planning and grocery shopping.Why letting go of the "invisible race of motherhood" can bring more peace to your life.A powerful journal prompt to help you find one small shift that can make a big difference.Key Takeaways:Your time is valuable. When you don't have systems in place, you are making a thousand small decisions a day, and they will burn you out.Systems are not a cage; they're a key to your freedom. They are not there to box you in, but to free you up to do the parts of motherhood only you can do.Motherhood deserves respect. The truth is, motherhood is meaningful, exhausting, and unpredictable work, and it deserves respect from others and from yourself.Focus on the next right thing. When you let go of the pressure to do everything at once, you become calmer, more present, and more productive in the long run.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

Ever thought about homeschooling but felt overwhelmed by the “what ifs”? In this episode of The Motherhood Process, I’m sharing our family’s honest journey into homeschooling—and why we’re choosing to start slow. From the doubts and outside opinions that almost kept me from taking the leap, to the vision we have for our kids’ education, I’ll walk you through the mindset shifts and practical steps that are making this transition feel life-giving instead of stressful.You’ll hear how we’re building our days around connection, life skills, and family experiences, and why I’m focusing on a simple, sustainable rhythm instead of recreating a full public school schedule at home. Whether homeschooling is on your mind or you’re navigating any big life change, this conversation is an encouraging reminder that you can trust yourself, move at your own pace, and create a lifestyle that truly fits your family.What You’ll Hear:The fears that almost stopped me from homeschooling—and how I worked through themHow I handle opinions from friends and family who don’t understand our choiceWhy slow, intentional mornings matter more to me than a packed curriculumOur focus on life skills, curiosity, and real-world experiences over rigid academicsThe flexibility and freedom that make homeschooling fit our current seasonA journal prompt to help you make big decisions with confidenceKey Takeaways:You don’t need to start with a full, structured schedule—begin with the basicsTrusting your gut is as important as gathering informationHomeschooling can be about lifestyle and connection, not just academicsFlexibility is one of the greatest gifts you can give your kids and yourselfOther people don’t have to understand your decisions for them to be right for your familyResources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

Ever feel like you have to do all the things to be a "good" mom? In this episode of The Motherhood Process, Autumn Akins shares a radically gentle approach to navigating motherhood: starting small. Whether you're rebuilding routines, trying to declutter your home, or easing into homeschool life, this episode is a powerful reminder that big change doesn’t require big steps. Autumn walks us through real examples of how choosing just one small thing at a time can create more peace, clarity, and sanity without the pressure of perfection.Tune in to hear her honest reflections, time saving tips, and the mindset shifts that are helping her (and can help you) feel more grounded in a beautifully chaotic season.What You’ll Hear:Why moms often aim too big and how it backfiresThe 15 minute cleaning hack that changed Autumn’s daily lifeHer thoughts on Instacart, overstimulation, and reclaiming timeHow letting go of guilt made room for more clarityA softer, simpler way to approach homeschool planningThe mindset reframe that brought back a sense of peace in the morningKey Takeaways:You don’t need an hour—just 15 minutes can make a big impactDone is better than perfect (especially in motherhood)Releasing unrealistic expectations creates space for peaceSmall steps help you build sustainable routines, not burnoutSaying no to extras can be the most freeing form of self careYou’re not falling behind, you're figuring out what matters mostResources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of The Motherhood Process, Autumn Akins reveals her secret weapons – six highly-loved items that have become indispensable to her daily life with baby Riot. From game-changing gear that supports your child's development, to unexpected favorites that bring pure joy to routines, Autumn shares the products that have truly made a difference. She even unveils a personal "mom hack" that isn't technically for baby, but has profoundly shifted her mindset and brought back a lost piece of herself during postpartum. Tune in to discover the practical tools and surprising insights that help bring "peace and simplicity" and "kind of sanity" to the beautiful chaos of motherhood.What You’ll Hear:The "hype" item that Autumn initially doubted but now uses "probably more than anything else".Sleepsacks so good, they're on their third baby and "still buttery soft".The inexpensive teether that Riot is "absolutely obsessed with".A baby seat designed with physical therapists, offering a healthier alternative. The "splurge" stroller that's been a "family's vehicle" for years and multiple children.The non-baby item that helped Autumn "rekindle" her love for something deeply personal and reduce screen time.Key Takeaways:Not all "hype" items are overrated – some truly deliver on their promise.Investing in quality baby gear can pay off through longevity and durability.Sometimes, the simplest and most unexpected items become a child's absolute favorite.There are innovative baby products designed to support healthy development.A well-chosen stroller can be a long-term family investment, adapting as your family grows.Discover how a non-baby item can profoundly impact a mom's mental well-being and sense of self in the postpartum period.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

In this personal episode of the Motherhood Process, Autumn Akins discusses how the birth of her third child forced her to let go of her once-rigid morning routine. She shares the mental and emotional struggles of adapting to life with three young children, and the guilt she felt for not maintaining her former routine. Autumn emphasizes that the true value of her routine was never about productivity, but about fostering calm and reconnecting with her identity beyond motherhood. She outlines her simplified morning practice, which prioritizes a few small, intentional actions to set a peaceful tone for the day. This episode offers encouragement for mothers navigating demanding seasons, highlighting the importance of self-compassion and flexibility in creating routines that bring peace, not pressure.What You’ll Hear:Autumn’s return to podcasting and the challenges of being a mother to three children under five.  The personal struggle of letting go of a tightly held morning routine.  Shifting from a checklist mentality to valuing routines for peace of mind and self-connection.  Practical elements of her current, simplified morning routine.  Encouragement for other moms to adapt routines with grace and focus on personal well-being.Key Takeaways:Motherhood with multiple young children presents significant physical and mental demands.  Rigid routines may need to be adapted or released during demanding life seasons.  The core purpose of a morning routine is often about personal well-being and identity, not just productivity.  Self-compassion and flexibility are crucial for navigating changes in personal habits.  Even small, intentional morning actions can significantly impact daily calm and self-connection.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of The Motherhood Process, host Autumn Akins is back and welcoming a new special guest to the family, her brand new baby. Diving into the "meat of the topic," Autumn tackles the common struggle of multitasking and why it often leaves us feeling drained and unproductive. Drawing from her own experience as a "serial multitasker," she makes the case for single-tasking as a way to transform productivity and well-being. Autumn explains the scientific concepts behind this, such as "switching costs" and the "unfinished task problem," and then offers practical strategies to embrace focused, single-task work. She explains how this approach not only helps you get more done but also reduces stress and increases your sense of accomplishment and purpose.What You’ll Hear:The illusion of productivity that multitasking creates, and the draining reality of "switching costs".How the "unfinished task problem" adds to stress and leaves you feeling unstable.The magic of "immersion and flow" that comes from focusing on one thing.An introduction to "deep work" and how it enables real progress and higher quality results.Actionable tips for single-tasking, including prioritizing, time blocking, eliminating distractions, and practicing mindfulness.The importance of "closing a task" and celebrating completion to boost confidence.The emotional and mental benefits of single-tasking, such as reduced anxiety and a greater sense of control.Key Takeaways:Multitasking doesn't actually make us more productive; it creates an illusion of busyness.Focusing on one thing at a time reduces stress and helps you feel more in control of your day."Deep work" is where true progress happens and is the opposite of multitasking.Prioritize your top three tasks each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.Always "close the task" by finishing it completely to reduce mental load.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

The newborn phase is a whirlwind of emotions, changes, and challenges, but it’s also a time of incredible growth and connection. In this episode, I’m sharing insights to help you navigate this season with grace and resilience. From managing expectations to building your support system, we’ll explore how to prepare emotionally for life with a newborn. Whether you’re expecting your first baby or adding another little one to your family, these practical tips and reflections will help you approach motherhood with confidence and compassion.What You’ll Hear:Letting Go of Perfection:Why releasing unrealistic expectations is essential for finding peace in the early days of motherhood.The Emotional Journey:A candid discussion about the highs and lows of the newborn phase and how to embrace both.Building Your Village:Tips for identifying and leaning on your support network when you need it most.Practicing Self-Compassion:How to celebrate small wins, care for yourself, and nurture your own mental health while caring for your baby.Key Takeaways:Release Unrealistic Expectations: Focus on presence over perfection in the newborn phase.Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize the beauty in little victories during this season of life.Lean on Your Support Network: Don’t hesitate to ask for and accept help when you need it.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:Let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, encouragement, and personal reflections on motherhood.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process and join our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’re diving into creating intentional routines that simplify life and bring more peace to your home. Don’t miss it!

Traveling with kids during the holidays can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, I’m sharing practical tips to make family trips smoother, less stressful, and maybe even enjoyable. Whether it’s a long car ride or a cross-country flight, these strategies will help you navigate the chaos with confidence. Tune in to learn how to keep kids entertained, manage expectations, and handle those inevitable travel hiccups like a pro.What You’ll Hear:Letting Go of Expectations:How releasing the idea of a “perfect trip” can transform your travel mindset.The Power of Snacks and Stops:Why snacks are your ultimate travel tool and how strategic stops can save the day.Balancing Entertainment:Creative ways to alternate screen time with engaging toys and activities.Making Flexibility Your Superpower:Building extra time into your schedule to account for delays and tantrums.Key Takeaways:Set Realistic Expectations: Travel with kids is rarely perfect, but it’s always memorable.Pack Like a Pro: Snacks, toys, and small comforts can make all the difference.Embrace Flexibility: Planning ahead is great, but staying adaptable is key to stress-free trips.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear your travel stories and tips! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments.Subscribe & Review:Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe and leave a quick review to help more moms discover The Motherhood Process.Join Me Next Week:Next week, we’ll explore creating meaningful traditions for your family during the holidays. See you then!

Expectations—we all have them. But when those expectations go unmet, they can lead to disappointment, resentment, and even damage to our mental health. In this episode, I’m diving deep into why we hold expectations, how they affect our relationships and well-being, and actionable strategies to let go and focus on what we can control. Together, we’ll explore how shifting from expectations to appreciation can lead to more peace and stronger connections with those we love.What You’ll Hear:Why We Hold Expectations:The underlying reasons we expect certain behaviors from others and how it stems from our own ideals and needs.The Impact of Unmet Expectations:How unfulfilled expectations can create cycles of disappointment, resentment, and mental strain in our relationships.Personal Stories:Autumn shares her own struggles with expectations, including a story about friendships and the lessons she learned.Practical Strategies to Let Go:Five actionable steps to reduce expectations, including reflecting on what’s realistic, practicing self-compassion, and focusing on appreciation over control.Key Takeaways:Focus on What You Can Control: You can’t control others’ actions, but you can control your own responses and boundaries.Shift from Expectations to Gratitude: Instead of focusing on what others aren’t doing, appreciate what they contribute.Practice Acceptance: Accept people for who they are, not who you expect them to be, to cultivate more peace in your relationships.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear about your Core Four experience! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for tips, holiday inspiration, and behind-the-scenes fun.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a rating or review. Your support helps other moms find The Motherhood Process.Join Me Next Week:Don’t miss our next episode as we continue simplifying motherhood and embracing intentional living. See you then!

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the joy (and sometimes stress) of gift-giving. In this episode, I’m sharing our family’s intentional approach to Christmas gifts—the Core Four Christmas Tradition. By focusing on four thoughtful categories—something to read, something they need, something to wear, and something they want—we’ve simplified the holidays while keeping the magic alive. Tune in for ideas, tips, and inspiration to make your gift-giving more meaningful this season!What You’ll Hear:The Core Four Tradition:How our family balances holiday fun with intentionality using the four gift categories.Why Simplicity Matters:How focusing on fewer, purposeful gifts helps reduce overwhelm and clutter while adding meaning to the holidays.Gift Ideas for Each Category:Suggestions for thoughtful gifts under each category, from books to cozy clothes to favorite toys.Making Gift-Giving Special for Kids:Tips on managing expectations, including how we approach Santa gifts to keep the season magical and equitable.Key Takeaways:Thoughtful, simple gifting helps reduce stress and enhances the holiday experience for the whole family.Choosing intentional gifts fosters more gratitude and connection with your loved ones.You don’t need an overflowing tree to create magical holiday memories!Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear about your Core Four experience! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for tips, holiday inspiration, and behind-the-scenes fun.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a rating or review. Your support helps other moms find The Motherhood Process.Join Me Next Week:Don’t miss our next episode as we continue simplifying motherhood and embracing intentional living. See you then!

In this episode, we’re tackling the overwhelm that comes with building systems at home. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to begin, you’re not alone! I’ll walk you through practical steps to get started with manageable routines, even if you’re feeling paralyzed by the options. Together, we’ll explore the mental roadblocks that often hold us back, the emotional toll of overwhelm, and why finding your starting point is key to making lasting changes. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to take the first small step toward more peace and order at home.What You’ll Hear:The Paralysis of Not Knowing Where to Start:Why the endless options for routines can lead to decision fatigue, and how to move past it with simple steps.The Emotional Toll of Overwhelm:Insight into the guilt and frustration many moms feel when trying to “have it all together” and tips for handling these feelings.Finding Your Starting Point:Practical advice on identifying your biggest pain point and choosing one small, manageable area to focus on first.Tips for Consistency Over Perfection:How to build routines gradually, keeping expectations realistic and prioritizing progress over perfection.Key Takeaways:Start Small: Choose one manageable system, like meal planning or a simple chore routine, and begin there.Acknowledge Your Emotions: Recognize the emotional impact of overwhelm and give yourself permission to approach systems in your own time.Consistency Matters More Than Perfection: Keep showing up for your routine, and remember that systems are built gradually.Free Resource: Time Audit ToolWant help finding your starting point? Download my exclusive Time Audit tool to identify your biggest time-wasters and focus your energy on what truly matters. Get the free tool at autumnakins.com/reclaim.Connect with Me:I’d love to hear about your journey! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for tips, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at implementing family systems.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a rating or review. Your support helps more moms discover The Motherhood Process!Join Me Next Week:Tune in next week as we dive deeper into routines that bring ease and balance to your motherhood journey. See you then!

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the topic of implementing family systems to make life smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. As a high-achieving mom, you know how valuable routines can be, but getting the whole family to follow along isn’t always easy! I’ll walk you through a three-step framework to understand family resistance, highlight the benefits of systems for everyone, and set boundaries that encourage success. Whether it’s meal planning, a chore chart, or a bedtime routine, I’ll show you how to create systems that work - and get buy-in from your family along the way.What You’ll Hear:Why Resistance Happens:Understanding why family members may push back against new systems and the common reasons behind their reluctance.Benefits of Family Systems:How systems can reduce stress, ease daily tasks, and create more quality time together.Setting Boundaries for Success:Practical tips for establishing clear expectations, maintaining consistency, and allowing flexibility without giving up on routines.Tips for Introducing New Systems:Simple advice on involving your family in the process and starting small to build confidence in new routines.Key Takeaways:Understand the “Why” Behind Resistance: Recognize that it’s normal for family members to feel hesitant, and approach their concerns with empathy.Reframe Systems as Beneficial for All: Show your family how routines and systems can simplify life and bring more joy and peace to the home.Set Boundaries but Stay Flexible: Boundaries make systems sustainable, but flexibility keeps everyone engaged and stress-free.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear your thoughts! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more tips, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at life with family systems.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a rating or review. Your support helps other moms discover The Motherhood Process!Join Me Next Week:Tune in next week as we continue exploring ways to simplify and bring joy to the journey of motherhood. See you then!

In this episode, I’m opening up about a huge, life-changing decision my husband and I recently made. With our family preparing to move from Wyoming to Michigan, we found ourselves facing conflicting needs and challenges. This episode explores the power of open communication, identifying each other's non-negotiables, and working through the tough emotions that arise when big choices pull a couple in different directions. Join me as I share how we navigated this journey and found a way to move forward as a team, even when our paths diverged.What You’ll Hear:The Reality of Big Decisions:I share the backstory of our move, the challenges we faced, and how these impacted our relationship.Understanding Each Other’s Needs:How identifying each partner’s “non-negotiable” helped us communicate better and meet each other halfway.Balancing Compromise with Clarity:Our approach to finding a solution that allowed us to honor both financial stability and peace of mind for our family.Navigating Separation:The emotional challenges of temporarily living apart, preparing our kids, and finding strength together despite the distance.Practical Advice for Couples:Tips for staying connected during big decisions, including the importance of open dialogue, empathy, and prioritizing each other’s needs.Key Takeaways:Open Communication is Key: Clear, honest conversations help couples understand each other's needs, especially during major life changes.Identify Your Non-Negotiables: Clarifying your priorities can guide you toward decisions that respect both partners’ perspectives.Remember You’re on the Same Team: When tensions rise, focus on solutions that strengthen your family and relationship.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for more behind-the-scenes insights and tips on navigating motherhood and family life.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a rating or review. Your support helps other moms find this growing community.Join Me Next Week:Don’t miss next week’s episode as we continue exploring the beautiful and challenging journey of motherhood and family life. See you then!

Welcome back to The Motherhood Process! In today’s episode, I’m sharing a funny yet relatable story about a little mishap with my four-year-old son who accidentally let a “bad word” slip at school. Join me as I walk you through my initial reactions, the importance of communication, and how we can turn these awkward moments into valuable lessons for our kids.What You’ll Hear:The Shock Factor:I’ll recount my surprise when I received a text from my son’s teacher about his unexpected word choice. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t what I expected!Playing Detective:Discover how I approached the situation like a detective—gathering information and keeping an open line of communication with the teacher before jumping to conclusions.Turning It into a Lesson:I’ll share my thoughts on how to turn this incident into a teachable moment about language and context, all while keeping the conversation light and shame-free for my son.Building Bridges with Teachers:Let’s talk about the importance of having a supportive relationship with your child’s teacher. I’ll share insights from my teaching background and why collaboration matters.A Funny Twist:Get ready for a laugh as I reveal my son’s actual response when I asked him about the “bad word.” Kids really do say the funniest things!Embracing Imperfection:I’ll encourage you to give yourself and your little ones grace during these parenting challenges. Remember, mistakes are part of the journey!Key Takeaways:Stay calm and use challenging moments as opportunities for learning.Keep the lines of communication open with teachers to create a positive environment.Embrace the ups and downs of motherhood—it’s all part of the process!Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for tips, inspiration, and a peek behind the scenes.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please hit that subscribe button and leave a rating or review! Your support helps fellow moms find this little community.Join Me Next Week:Don’t miss our next episode, where I’ll dive into more relatable stories and tips for navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood. See you then!

In this episode, I’m opening up about a major life change our family is navigating - a cross-country move from Wyoming to Michigan. We’ll talk about the rollercoaster of emotions that come with big transitions and how I’m working to balance excitement with the inevitable fear of the unknown. Just like our journey into restaurant ownership, this move is a leap of faith, but with kids in tow, it feels even bigger. Join me as we dig into the growth that comes from taking risks, finding peace amid change, and leaning into the beauty of new beginnings.What You’ll Hear:Our Big Move:The story behind our decision to move from Wyoming to Michigan, and what this change means for our family.Navigating Emotions:How I’m balancing the excitement of a fresh start with the sadness of leaving a community we’ve built over seven years.Learning from Our Kids:How my four-year-old’s carefree attitude about the move is inspiring us to face change with courage and curiosity.Creating New Routines:My thoughts on establishing a balance between spending time with extended family and maintaining our own family’s routines.The Power of Risk-Taking:Reflections on why embracing risk is essential for personal growth and how it brings a boost of self-confidence.Focusing on the Positive:I share strategies for shifting from anxiety to anticipation and how I’m visualizing the joy this move could bring.Key Takeaways:Embrace the emotional ups and downs that come with major life changes—it’s okay to feel scared and excited all at once.Taking risks helps us grow, even when the outcome is uncertain.Keeping a positive mindset can open doors to unexpected joy and fulfillment.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for tips, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content as we navigate this big change together.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a rating or review! Your support helps fellow moms discover our growing community.Join Me Next Week:Don’t miss our next episode, where we continue exploring the journey of motherhood, growth, and the process of embracing life’s beautiful changes. See you then!

Hey, Mama! It’s Autumn here, and I’m so excited for today’s episode because we’re unpacking a topic that hits home for so many of us: the myth that making mistakes somehow makes us “less” as moms. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to be perfect or caught yourself replaying those tough moments on a loop, this one’s for you. I’m sharing some real stories from my own journey, tips to shift our mindsets, and practical ways we can turn slip-ups into opportunities for growth. Together, let’s embrace the messy, wonderful process of motherhood - imperfections and all!What You’ll Hear:The Pressure to Be Perfect:Discover the internal struggles high-achieving moms face and the unrealistic standards they set for themselves.Reframing Mistakes:Learn how to view mistakes not as failures but as vital opportunities for growth and learning.Teaching Resilience to Kids:Understand why it's important to model handling mistakes for your children, showing them that it's okay to falter and learn from it.Mindset Shifts for Letting Go of Guilt:Explore practical strategies for shifting your inner dialogue from self-blame to self-compassion.The Role of Apologies in Parenting:Realize the power of apologizing to your kids and how it strengthens your relationship with them.Tackling Perfectionism and Guilt:Find out how to combat perfectionism and embrace the idea that every day is a new chance to grow as a mom.Key Takeaways:Mistakes are a natural part of motherhood—don’t let them define you.Apologizing to your kids teaches valuable life skills and builds connection.Embrace imperfection and give yourself grace as you navigate parenting challenges.Resources:https://autumnakins.com/reclaimConnect with Me:I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on Instagram at @whatautumndoes for tips, inspiration, and a peek behind the scenes.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please hit that subscribe button and leave a rating or review! Your support helps fellow moms find this little community.Join Me Next Week:Don’t miss our next episode, where I’ll dive into more relatable stories and tips for navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood. See you then!

Welcome to The Motherhood Process, hosted by Autumn Akins!  I'm a former kindergarten teacher turned stay-at-home mom to 2 sweet but crazy little boys (with another on the way!) who found her passion in entrepreneurship. After spending years in the classroom, I decided to make the transition to stay-at-home-mom when my first son was born and embarked on my mom journey.  From teaching to motherhood to running my own business - all of it has taught me so much about balance, purpose, and the power of intentional living. Now, I’m on a mission to help other moms trade stress and anxiety for a life and motherhood full of peace and purpose!Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatautumndoes/Checkout my website: https://autumnakins.com/Resources: https://autumnakins.com/reclaimGrab my Bedtime to Breakthrough: Only 30 Minutes a Night for Stress Free Mornings for Busy Moms - https://autumnakins.myflodesk.com/bedtimetobreakthrough