Author Archives: Usha Singh-Das

Cultural Expectations and Family Dynamics

The author reflects on her unique family dynamics as the youngest child of Indian immigrants in the UK. She experienced joy and love but also faced cultural expectations and emotional manipulation after her brothers’ marriages. Her upbringing was marked by a blend of affection and the complexities of familial roles and societal pressures.

Reflecting on Motherhood: My Personal Journey

With Mother’s Day now over a week behind us, I’ve taken a moment to reflect on my own journey of motherhood—and to think about the kind of mum I believe I am. But before diving into all that, let me tell you a little about how Mother’s Day went for me this year. A SpecialContinue reading “Reflecting on Motherhood: My Personal Journey”

Embracing a Young Mentality in Your 40s

I recently came across a meme that read something like: “I’m at the stage in life where my brain thinks it’s still in its 20s, but my body says, ‘Are we dead yet?’” That pretty much sums up how I feel in my 40s. Mentally, I’m convinced I can still rock 3-inch heeled boots allContinue reading “Embracing a Young Mentality in Your 40s”

Standing Up for Our Kids: A Mother’s Promise

There is one thing I will never understand about my family growing up—how my mum never stood up for me. Now, as a mother of two girls, there is nothing and no one that will stop me from protecting them and keeping them happy. And it’s not just about the big things; I will fightContinue reading “Standing Up for Our Kids: A Mother’s Promise”

The Power of Chosen Family: A Love Beyond Blood

One thing that always lingered in the back of my mind when I cut ties with my siblings and their families was that my daughters would grow up without cousins, aunts, and uncles who would love and spoil them. I worried they would miss out on the kind of family bond that comes from extendedContinue reading “The Power of Chosen Family: A Love Beyond Blood”

From People-Pleasing to Self-Acceptance: My Journey

Over the last few weeks, one thing has become abundantly clear to me—I am no longer the person I was growing up or even the person I was 10 years ago. From People-Pleasing to Standing My Ground I’ve always considered myself a people person. But in the past, that often meant I was more focusedContinue reading “From People-Pleasing to Self-Acceptance: My Journey”

15 Years of Growth: A Love Story

Last week marked 15 years since Nitin and I had our first date, and it got me thinking about everything we’ve been through together—the highs, the struggles, and the moments that have shaped us. To be honest, it doesn’t feel like 15 years. It feels more like five or six. I think the reason forContinue reading “15 Years of Growth: A Love Story”

The Complex Relationship with My Father: Love, Control, and Letting Go

Today, while at work, I came across a client with the same initials and surname my dad once had. His signature was about 60% similar to my father’s, and for a moment, it hit me—I missed him so much. My dad was a narcissist. There’s no doubt about that. He ruled the house with hisContinue reading “The Complex Relationship with My Father: Love, Control, and Letting Go”

Embracing Imperfections: My Battle with Skin and Hair

I’ve never been someone who focused on appearances. To be honest, I’ve never had much reason to. Growing up with eczema and later losing teeth after my pregnancies, I became accustomed to ignoring the societal pressures of looking a certain way. But recently, something unexpected has made me feel self-conscious for the first time inContinue reading “Embracing Imperfections: My Battle with Skin and Hair”