Leaning In (Again)

When I (re)started this journey, I had no idea how much the marketing side of this field had changed. Honestly, it’s been overwhelming at times, trying to rebuild a network and brand that I didn’t even realize was expected of me.

And while I’m talking about my career here, the truth is, what I am about to share could apply to almost any area of life. Change of place, identity, roles, or direction has a way of demanding more from us than we planned to give.

My response: I got quiet for a quick season as I personally navigated another geographical transition. And then, I’ll be honest, I hid.

The marketing, networking, and building part of what I do is not my favorite. It felt like it was no longer enough to just help people. It became my elephant in the room, and I needed time to move through it.

Now, I’m here.

My work has always been rooted in family systems and relationships formed over my first ten years of practice. Back then, my work grew organically through years of showing up, leaning in, and building trust. It wasn’t about proving myself; it was about connection. Sure, there were always areas for growth, but when you’re plugged into a supportive network and growing together, it doesn’t feel like work.

I was naive to assume I could replicate that same success just by “starting over.” The truth is, the world has changed. I have changed. And being geographically separated from my original community has made this rebuilding process both humbling and stretching.

Even as the need for mental health support grows, the landscape of private practice has become increasingly complex. It’s a reminder that even helpers need help.

For a long time, I resisted “branding” or “niching down.” My nature has always been to say yes and to lean in wherever there is need, regardless of boxes or categories. (I really dislike boxes.) But I’ve come to see that leaning in for a season doesn’t mean limiting myself. It means allowing myself to grow where I’m most needed.

Right now, that means turning my attention toward the unique emotional, relational, and mental health needs of women, especially around pregnancy, postpartum, and the transitions that follow.

These are the stories and seasons that are calling to me most deeply.

This doesn’t mean that if you reach out for something outside of that focus, I won’t answer. My heart and mission remain the same: to be a guide toward authentic living and emotional wellness. This is simply where I’m choosing to lean in right now for my own continued growth, education, and connection with my community.

The truth is, there isn’t a checklist for starting over. Most of us just figure it out as we go. But after years of sitting with people (and my own messy seasons of growth), I’ve noticed a few steady practices that make the process a little kinder.

If you’ve ever found yourself rebuilding, too: I see you. This season may look different, but we can still grow together.

Ten Gentle Reminders for When You’re Leaning In (Again)

1. Pause Before You Push. Growth doesn’t require constant motion. A mindful pause lets your nervous system catch up with your goals. You don’t have to say yes to everything. Be intentional with your energy.

2. Name What’s Changing. “Name it to tame it.” Whether it’s the elephant in the room or a part of you that feels uncertain, call it what it is. Recognition softens resistance and helps you keep moving through.

3. Redefine Productivity. Healing and rebuilding count as productive. Swap “What did I finish?” for “How did I stay present or connect today?”

4. Rebuild Safe Routines. Consistency regulates mood and anchors you in predictability. Small meals, regular sleep, and scheduled breaks all count. If you’ve moved, find your grocery store, farmers market, and go to park. Recreate rhythms that once grounded you.

5. Stay Curious About Avoidance. If you catch yourself hiding, ask, “What feels tender here?” Curiosity invites compassion. I lived here for months before returning to writing. I didn’t fight it. It became a friend until I was ready.

6. Reconnect Before You Correct. With yourself, your partner, your kids, or your work, build warmth first, then adjust.

7. Limit Comparisons, Expand Perspective. This journey isn’t linear. Zoom out and ask, “What would I tell a friend in my place?” Then offer yourself the same grace.

8. Find Your “Enough.”Set boundaries that honor your energy, not others’ expectations. “Good enough” is often the doorway back to balance. And if it isn’t good enough for them, they aren’t your people.

9. Laugh at the Awkward Parts.

Humor softens shame. It reminds you that imperfection is human, not failure.

10. Lean In, Gently.You don’t have to leap. Sometimes leaning in just means showing up today. Imperfect, curious, and willing to be here.

At the end of the day, just keep showing up. Someone will eventually meet you there or maybe you’ll meet yourself there. I promise it’s worth it.

-Megan Rowe