Headlines about the hardships of motherhood are rife – and one group of women have been paying close attention. Here, a thirtysomething writer takes a break from her to-do list to hear from those who are burning themselves out to prepare for parenthood

T here is a low-level hum that forms the soundtrack to many women’s lives. It’s a conditioning. The silent expectation to be the architect of everyone’s day, managing the moods of daily life. Being th

PUSH YOUR BUTTONS?

‘After the divorce and the kids moving out, I feel like I’ve disappeared. I’ve spent so long being someone’s wife, someone’s mother, someone’s employee – I don’t know what I want any more. Even small

Taking time out for recovery is key to meeting your goals, so don’t let guilt or anxiety put you off relaxing

Emma Cooling on navigating the pressure