Overcoming Anxiety: 5 Effective Strategies for Mental Well-Being
Interview with Authority Magazine:
Interview Transcript:
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” better. Can you tell us a bit about you and your backstory?
From as far back as I can remember, I’ve had this innate maternal instinct. I was the little girl who treated her baby brother like a living doll, and as I grew older, I naturally gravitated towards babysitting and nannying. Everyone around me would say, “Haley, you were born to be a mother.” And I believed it wholeheartedly. So, when I finally became pregnant, I had this picture-perfect vision of how everything would unfold — from pregnancy to delivery to motherhood. But life had other plans. My experiences didn’t match my expectations, and I felt this overwhelming sense of failure. Looking back, I realize postpartum depression and anxiety were creeping in, but at the time, life was moving so fast I couldn’t even recognize what was happening.
By the time my second child came along, and once again things didn’t go as planned, I was hit with an intense wave of dread and fear. The postpartum anxiety was so powerful this time, I couldn’t ignore it. I’m incredibly grateful that my OB noticed the change in me and encouraged me to stop trying to manage everything on my own. With her support, I started medication and made some crucial lifestyle changes. Exercise became my saving grace. It was more than just physical activity; it became a tool for empowerment. I even got certified as a row instructor, which sparked a newfound confidence in me. That’s when I realized I could build something bigger.
This journey led to the birth of Winnie & Lu. It’s more than just a business to me — it’s a purpose beyond what I’d always been told was my destiny. Don’t get me wrong, being a mother to my children is incredibly fulfilling. But now, through Winnie & Lu, I can make a positive impact on countless families, and especially on other moms who might be going through similar struggles. My story is a reminder that our paths often unfold in unexpected ways, but those twists and turns can lead us to something truly meaningful and impactful.
As a successful person in your field, have you or do you experience anxiety? And if so, how do you manage, reduce or eliminate anxiety so you can work efficiently and enjoy your non-work hours?
I’ve certainly experienced my share of anxiety. At times, it’s manifested as overwhelming fear, paralyzing paranoia, and an inability to make even simple decisions. These feelings can be incredibly challenging, especially when trying to run a business and care for a family. To manage this, I’ve developed a multi-faceted approach. Regular exercise, particularly rowing and lifting weights, has become my go-to stress reliever and mental clarity booster. I’ve also learned to embrace imperfection and surround myself with a supportive network. Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life is crucial, allowing me to be present with my family during non-work hours. Most importantly, I’ve recognized that anxiety doesn’t define me or limit my potential for success. By acknowledging its presence and actively working to manage it, I’ve found ways to thrive both personally and professionally, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation in my business and life.
Have you gone through a period of time in your life where you felt as though you were drowning in anxiety? If so, please share your experience and what you perceive as the reasons.
As someone who’s always relied on control to manage my anxiety, the period after each of my children were born was incredibly challenging. This period threw me into a world of complete unpredictability, which sent my anxiety into overdrive. I’ve always been the type to plan, organize, and anticipate outcomes. But with newborns and toddlers, all of that went out the window. Suddenly, I couldn’t control when I slept, ate, or even had a moment to myself. The kid’s schedules were erratic, and just when I thought I had a routine figured out, everything would change. This lack of control extended to every aspect of my life. As someone who had always found comfort in structure and predictability, I felt like I was drowning in a sea of chaos. Couple this with a move out of state, away from our family support system, these feelings only amplified. Not only was I trying to navigate young motherhood, but I was doing it without my usual safety net. This isolation left me feeling even more out of control and heightened my anxiety to levels I’d never experienced before. The weight of responsibility for these tiny humans, coupled with my inability to control their needs or behaviors, created a perfect storm of anxiety. I found myself constantly on edge, overthinking every decision, and struggling to find any sense of balance or normalcy. This period taught me a hard but valuable lesson about the limits of control and the need to adapt to unpredictability. It was a transformative experience that ultimately led me to develop new coping mechanisms and a different perspective on managing anxiety.
What or whom did you lean on to help you cope with anxiety?
During the intense periods of anxiety in early motherhood, I leaned on several key supports. My husband’s steady presence was invaluable, making me feel less alone. Exercise, particularly rowing, became my sanctuary for physical release and mental clarity. I found immense comfort in establishing a network of like-minded, non-judgmental moms who understood my struggles and offered practical advice. Professional help was crucial; my OB recognized my postpartum anxiety and encouraged me to seek support, with medication playing a vital role in managing my symptoms. Lastly, I created routines and structure where possible, providing a sense of stability. These supports, along with accepting that perfect control wasn’t attainable, helped me navigate through anxiety and emerge stronger.
What lessons did you derive from that dark period of time, that serve you now?
During that dark period of intense anxiety in early motherhood, I learned invaluable lessons that continue to serve me today. I discovered that vulnerability is a strength; by opening up about my struggles, I found the support I desperately needed. Letting go of perfectionism allowed me to embrace the messy reality of motherhood and entrepreneurship, and I realized that self-care isn’t selfish — it makes me a better mother, wife, and business owner.
Flexibility became crucial as I learned to adapt to unpredictable situations, which has made me more resilient. Building a community of supportive moms has also been essential; that network remains a cornerstone of my support system. Seeking professional help was a game-changer, reinforcing the importance of expert guidance in mental health. These lessons have profoundly shaped my approach to motherhood and business. They’ve helped me build Winnie & Lu with a balanced perspective, understanding that challenges are opportunities for growth and teaching me to embrace the journey, imperfections and all.
Do you have days or circumstances that still cause excessive stress?
Absolutely, every day brings its own set of stressors. As a multi-business owner, mother, volunteer, and wife, I juggle multiple responsibilities every day. There are days when the weight of those responsibilities feels overwhelming, and I often find myself navigating unexpected challenges that can trigger anxiety. Even with the strategies I’ve developed over time, there are still circumstances that cause excessive stress. Whether it’s dealing with tight deadlines, balancing work-life demands, or simply the unpredictability of motherhood, I have accepted that stress is a part of my journey. What’s important is how I respond to it. I’ve learned to lean on my support network, ask for help in advance, prioritize self-care, and embrace flexibility, but I acknowledge that some days are just tougher than others. It’s a continuous process, and I’m committed to finding balance while pursuing my passions.
What are your dependable “go to” strategies that you use to restore balance to your emotions?
First and foremost, I make it a priority to exercise daily. Whether it’s rowing, walking, or lifting weights, it helps clear my mind and boosts my mood. I also regularly carve out kid-free time to spend with my husband and girlfriends. These moments are essential for recharging and maintaining my own identity outside of parenting and work. Additionally, proactive scheduling plays a crucial role in my routine. By planning my days and weeks in advance, I create a sense of control and predictability that helps alleviate stress. This combination of exercise, quality time with loved ones, and thoughtful planning allows me to navigate the demands of motherhood and entrepreneurship while keeping my emotions balanced.
Please name five tips, practices, beliefs or affirmations that you recommend to anyone going through a highly stressful time.
1 . Aim for at least 20 minutes of exercise daily, preferably outside in the sunshine or by a window with a view.
2 . Spending quality time with my support group — husband, close friends, and extended family — allows me to speak freely, share laughter, and recharge.
3 . I prioritize self-care, which is distinct from exercise. For me, self-care can be as simple as binge-watching trash TV or cleaning out a junk drawer — basic activities that bring me satisfaction and help me through high-stress times.
4 . I started practicing meditation and hypnosis while preparing for a natural birth during my first pregnancy. Although my birth experience turned out to be completely different, I’m grateful for the foundation these practices provided. They have become invaluable coping skills that I use in my life today.
5 . Prioritize a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Not only does it nourish your body, but it also plays a significant role in enhancing your mood and boosting your energy levels. By fueling yourself with the right foods, you can better equip your mind and body to manage stress effectively and face challenges with resilience.
On a scale of one-ten, if 8–10 was your former, chronic level of anxiety, how would you score your usual level of anxiety today?
On a scale of one to ten, I’d say my usual level of anxiety today is around a 4–5. This is a significant improvement from my former chronic level, which was often in the 8–10 range. I recognize that I am inherently an anxious person, and that’s okay. The key difference now is that I’ve worked hard to develop awareness and coping strategies. I can usually distinguish between when my anxiety is controlling me versus when I’m in control of it. This shift didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of consistent effort, self-reflection, medication, and techniques I’ve learned along the way. While I still experience anxiety, it no longer dominates my life the way it once did.
Do you have daily practices that support you in maintaining peace, calmness or balance in your life?
Hands down, exercise is my go-to daily practice for maintaining peace, calmness, and balance in my life. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a rowing session, or a workout at the gym, getting my body moving is essential for clearing my mind and boosting my mood. Incorporating exercise into my daily routine has been transformative. It helps me approach challenges with a clearer mindset and greater resilience, ultimately enabling me to navigate both my personal and professional life with more ease.
Was there any particular saying, person, or book that taught you the skills that enable you to escape or avoid the higher levels of anxiety that used to plague you?
The person who had the most profound impact on my journey to manage anxiety was my OB. I had known her for many years before becoming her patient, and I always admired her ability to make everything seem effortlessly easy. When my postpartum anxiety spiraled out of control, she recognized the signs and helped me see that what I was experiencing wasn’t the real me. Her validation was life-saving; she acknowledged my struggles and encouraged me to stop trying to manage my feelings on my own. This turning point taught me the importance of listening to trusted voices in my life, especially when they see something in me that I might not recognize myself. Her support set me on a path to better understand and manage my anxiety, leading to the more balanced life I enjoy today.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with those who are reading this article. Are there also other ways you are sharing your wisdom?
Thank you for the opportunity to share my experiences! In addition to this article, I share my wisdom through various platforms. I actively engage with my audience on social media (@winnie.and.lu.baby), where I post about my journey, offer tips, and promote self-care practices. I also contribute to my blog on the Winnie & Lu website, where I discuss topics related to motherhood, entrepreneurship, and mental well-being.
Wonderful. We are nearly done. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them.
If I could have a private breakfast or lunch with anyone, it would be Dolly Parton. I have been a fan of hers for as long as I can remember. Her authenticity, generosity, and ability to show love to people from all walks of life are qualities I truly admire and hope to model in my own life. Dolly’s impact on music and her philanthropic efforts inspire me, and I would love the opportunity to discuss her experiences and insights over a meal. It would be a dream come true to connect with someone who embodies such kindness and authenticity.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.
If I could start a movement, it would be to revolutionize the workplace to better support parents, allowing them to be present for their children without sacrificing their financial stability. This movement would advocate for flexible work arrangements, comprehensive parental leave policies, on-site or subsidized childcare, and a culture that values work-life balance. The ultimate long-term goal for Winnie & Lu is to lead by example in this movement, creating a company culture that prioritizes the needs of working parents. By championing these principles, we hope to inspire other businesses to follow suit, transforming the working world for families.
How can our readers follow your work online?
Readers can follow my work online by visiting our website at winnieandlu.com and connecting with us on Instagram at @winnie.and.lu.baby. There, you’ll find updates on our latest products, insights into motherhood, and tips for creating a beautiful, functional home.
Thank you so much for joining us. This was very inspirational.