As parents, my husband and I are deeply grateful that we can provide well for our kids. There’s a special kind of joy in seeing their faces light up when we give them something they’ve been wishing for.
But over the years, I’ve realized that saying no is just as important as saying yes.
Because I don’t want to raise children who believe that everything they want should automatically be theirs—just because we can afford it. I want them to learn the value of waiting, choosing wisely, and appreciating what they already have.
It’s not about depriving them. It’s about teaching them that not everything you can buy, you should.
That happiness doesn’t always come from having more— but from knowing when you already have enough. 🌸
I’m just a girl who once dreamed of becoming successful. Not in the glossy, magazine-cover kind of way, but in a way that felt honest and true. I dreamed of a life where I could do meaningful work, love and be loved, and be present for the people who mattered most.
I never aimed to be the perfect wife or mom. I never felt the pressure to live up to that title. But I did, and still do, want to be there for every milestone. I want to be the one cheering loudly during school performances, preparing their favorite comfort meals on tough days, and having the kind of home that always feels safe and warm. I want to make sure my family has everything they need, not just in material things, but in love, support, and time.
In my mind, my ideal day is simple. I’d start it by driving my daughters to school, music playing softly in the background as we chat about their day ahead. I’d come home, fit in a quick workout, then savor a quiet breakfast while mapping out the day’s priorities. Work would be purposeful, with enough breathing space to think, create, and contribute without constant chaos. And in the afternoon, I’d fetch the kids again, winding down the day with unhurried conversations over dinner and quiet, present time spent with my husband and kids.
I don’t take for granted the trust others place in me. Being seen as “the reliable one” is something I appreciate. It means people believe I can be counted on. But I need to admit this, out loud and without guilt: I don’t want to be the default person everyone turns to for help, to vent, to unload frustrations. I don’t want to carry other people’s emotional weights just because I’m capable. It drains me. It’s heavy. And some days, I’m already carrying more than I let on.
And there’s something else I’ve had to learn the hard way. No matter how honestly I speak, no matter how vulnerable I try to be, there will always be people who choose not to believe me. That hurts more than I often let on. But I’ve come to understand that I cannot rely on anyone else to validate my truth. Because I know the whole story. I know the intentions behind my actions, the silent battles I’ve fought, the weight of what I carry behind closed doors. And that has to be enough.
This isn’t me turning away from people. I’ll always be here for those I love. But I’m learning to protect my peace. To draw boundaries not out of selfishness, but out of self-preservation. Because I deserve to feel light too. I deserve to feel whole.
If you’ve ever felt the same, I see you. Let’s remind each other that it’s okay to choose rest over responsibility sometimes, to say “not today” without shame, and to be both reliable and soft with ourselves.
After all, I’m just a girl who had a dream, and that dream includes not losing myself along the way.
💬 I’d Love to Hear from You
Have you ever felt like the default strong one? Do you find yourself constantly holding space for others, even when you need support too?
Leave a comment below or share this post with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone.
There are days I stop myself from sharing moments that matter like a work milestone, a short getaway, or even something as simple as a nice meal because I know how quickly it can be misunderstood.
“Wow, ang dami mong pera!”
“Big time ka na, ang yaman mo na!”
But here’s the truth: I’m a full-time mom and a remote worker. I juggle deadlines, house chores, emotional meltdowns (sometimes mine, sometimes my kids’ 😅), and everything in between.
The wins I share aren’t because I have plenty. They’re because I’ve worked hard, sacrificed, saved, and prayed through seasons that didn’t always look or feel this good.
Not everyone gets the same breaks. I know that. And I carry that truth with humility. So if I post something joyful, it’s not to boast. It’s to remind myself that even in the chaos, I’m allowed to celebrate the life I’ve built with love, grit, and grace.
To the moms, workers, and dreamers out there still pushing through, your time will come. And when it does, don’t ever feel guilty for living it. 💛
Not everyone dreams of building tech ecosystems — but I stumbled into it and stayed because it feels like home.
When I joined e27 (Optimatic), I thought I was simply managing projects. But I quickly realized, I get to bring people into rooms that matter — founders, CTOs, investors, ecosystem enablers — and create conversations that spark real momentum.
When you’re managing roundtables and roadshows, it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics — venues, RSVPs, speaker decks, coffee runs. But what really fuels me? ✨ It’s watching a founder finally meet their first investor. ✨ It’s hearing a CTO say, “I didn’t expect to walk away with a hiring solution.” ✨ It’s seeing ideas collide — and something new emerge.
At e27, I get to design these moments. Not the flashy keynotes — but the real conversations that move the needle for founders.
I’m not a founder. I’m not an investor. I’m a connector. And in the startup world, that’s powerful.
Ecosystem building is a lot of logistics, a ton of listening, and a deep belief that collaboration > competition. And I love it.
👋 I’m Sherwin — currently managing Open Innovation projects, roadshows, and startup engagement for e27.
Do you want to start your career while being a stay-at-home mom at the same time? Need tips and advices too? Just shoot me an email or message me in facebook. Let’s talk. I’m more than willing to help. 🥰
After a hiatus that felt longer than intended, I’m thrilled to be back in the blogging sphere, ready to weave words and share experiences (and shopping budols and reviews) again with all of you. Life took me on unexpected journeys, but it also reminded me of the joy and fulfillment that comes from expressing thoughts through this digital space. I have been on this platform eversince I can remember!
The pause was necessary, a period of reflection and personal growth. Yet, during this time away, I’ve missed the connections, conversations, and the sheer joy of putting thoughts into words. Now, as I step back into the blogosphere, I want to share the excitement of returning with a promise – a promise to be more consistent, to share more frequently, and to create content that resonates.
Blogging, for me, has always been about creating a dialogue, a space where ideas can flow freely. It’s a platform where experiences are shared, lessons are learned, and connections are forged. The community that surrounds blogging is invaluable, and I am eager to rebuild and strengthen those connections.
Expect a variety of content – from personal anecdotes to thought-provoking discussions (thoughts on freelancing and upskilling coming up!). This blog is not just a space for me to share but a platform for us to engage in meaningful conversations. Your thoughts, opinions, and experiences are not just welcome; they are an integral part of the blogging journey. Drop in the comments section what topics would you like to see from the blog soon!
To those who have patiently waited for my return, thank you. Your support means more than words can express. For those just discovering this blog, welcome – I’m excited to have you on board.
So, here’s to a new chapter, filled with words, stories, and shared experiences. Let’s embark on this journey together, and I promise, this time, the posts will be more frequent, the content more diverse, and the connection stronger.
Stay tuned for what lies ahead, and let’s make this blogging comeback a memorable one!
sherwinelaine.blog 