My Journey as a Young Mother The Story Behind Inward Parenting: Our Founder’s Journey from Struggle to Purpose

By Alicia Douglas

Last week, I had the privilege of delivering a workshop at the Black and Diverse Safeguarding Conference (BDSC). I stood before a room filled with social workers and family practitioners, speaking on “Understanding Black Mothers’ Avoidant Attachment Styles in Family Practice.”

As I shared insights on attachment and motherhood, a wave of reflection came over me. Twenty years ago, those same traits I was describing so academically were also describing me. At just 18 years old, a first-time mother with little guidance or support, I embodied many of those avoidant patterns.

And yet, here I am today an integrative counsellor, a founder, and a woman dedicated to designing programmes that truly make an impact for mothers and their families.

You might ask, “Why is she telling me all this?”

Because it’s important for you to understand that my journey was not smooth or easy. There were countless moments when I wanted to give up. Times when the burden felt too heavy, and the voice of doubt was louder than hope. But something, call it resilience, call it faith, call it purpose, would not let me quit.

Standing in that conference room, I realised something profound: sometimes our deepest challenges are intricately tied to our life’s purpose. The very struggles we wish away can become the foundation of the work we are called to do.

Lately, I’ve noticed more mothers both on social media and in person, bravely speaking about the realities of motherhood. They’re voicing what was once kept silent: the overwhelm, the resentment, the guilt. The moments when being fully present feels impossible.

This honesty is powerful, because it breaks the myth of the “perfect mother.” It reminds us that motherhood is not just about sacrifice, but about support. And it challenges us, as professionals, communities, and fellow women, to create spaces where mothers can be seen, heard, and supported, not judged.

I also want to be clear: single motherhood is not all doom and gloom. Sometimes your children can be the brightest light in a world that feels dark and isolating. I know mine were, and still are. Joy exists in motherhood, joy in the laughter, in the milestones, in the love that grows stronger every single day.

But, when we acknowledge the real weight that mothers carry, we can start to build systems of care that help them move from surviving to thriving. And when we empower mothers, we empower families, children, and entire communities.

My story is just one example of how hardship can give birth to purpose. But it’s also a reminder: if you are a mother reading this and feeling overwhelmed, please know you are not alone. Your story, too, can evolve into something bigger than your current struggle.

Because sometimes, the very things that break us are the things that prepare us to build something far greater. And in the journey of motherhood, even in the hardest seasons, light and joy can still be found.

Mums, if no one has told you today, you are doing amazing!

Thank you to all the organisations and professionals who support our movement and community. We cannot wait to continue this journey with you.

If you need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly at info@inwardparenting.org.uk.

Thank you

Alicia

Founder & Director - Inward Parenting