Why Having It All Is a Feeling, Not a Checklist

What does “having it all” mean to you?

Is it attainable?

I used to think “having it all” meant doing everything, being everything, and juggling it all perfectly—career, family, self-care, the whole package. But over the years, that idea has completely changed for me. Now, “having it all” doesn’t look like perfection—it feels more like peace.

For me, it starts with family. Being there for my daughter, sharing those everyday little moments, watching her grow, laugh, learn—that’s the heart of it. Whether we’re doing karate drop-offs, giggling over ice cream, or watching her favorite shows, those are the memories that matter most to me. That’s where I feel most alive and connected.

And then there’s my husband—my partner, my teammate, my built-in source of laughter. We don’t always have it all figured out, but we show up for each other. We parent together, support each other, and we’re always on the same page when it really counts. That’s something I’ll never take for granted.

I’ve also come to really value living authentically. I’ve learned to trust my instincts, especially when it comes to parenting. I set boundaries when I need to and protect the kind of space where my daughter can grow and thrive. I want her to see her mom as someone who stood by her values, even when it wasn’t easy.

Part of “having it all,” for me, is healing too. My childhood wasn’t always what I needed it to be, but I’ve done the work to make peace with that. I’ve chosen to forgive, to rebuild, and to create new, healthier relationships with my parents. That’s been a huge part of my growth—and something I’m really proud of.

But the biggest shift? Realizing that “having it all” isn’t a checklist, it’s a feeling. It’s about being content with what I have, truly appreciating the blessings already in my life. It doesn’t mean I’m not dreaming or hoping for more—but I’m not waiting for “more” to feel happy. Gratitude is everything. And when you let that guide you, life starts to feel fuller—right here, right now.

So yes, I believe having it all is possible. But it’s not about doing it all or having every box checked. It’s about living in alignment with what matters most to you, and recognizing that you already have so much to be thankful for.

That, to me, is what “having it all” really means.

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