The turning point

Everything began to change when I discovered compassionate communication — a way of understanding behaviour through feelings, needs and empathising, rather than judgement, blame or criticism.

I realised that:

• Shouting wasn’t because I was a bad mum
• It was a sign that my needs weren’t being met
• And that I’d lost connection with myself before I ever lost it with my children

As I began to practise compassionate communication (or, as I like to call it, 'Giraffe-Speak'), something shifted.

I learned how to:

• Pause before reacting
• Understand what was really going on underneath my anger
• Repair after ruptures instead of drowning in guilt
• Speak to my children — and myself — with more honesty and kindness

Our family relationships softened.
Not perfectly. Not magically.

But deeply, and lastingly.

And, crucially, I stopped believing that I had to sacrifice myself in order to be a loving mother. 

What's more, my children (and my husband!) started to pick up these skills too. They learned how to understand their own feelings, needs and behaviour, how to empathise, and how to express themselves clearly and compassionately. 

This, for me, is priceless.

Not only because it's given me the most wonderful relationship with my children (the 'terrible teens' really don't have to be so terrible!) but also because I know how important emotional intelligence is for their future success and happiness. 

In fact, research shows emotional literacy and effective communication skills are key predictors of long-term wellbeing, resilience and healthy relationships. Yet very little of this is being taught in schools. 

And in a time where so many people seem to be stressed-out, anxious or angry, it's clear that the world needs this now - even more than ever before.

The truth is, it's down to us to raise our children as compassionate, emotionally intelligent beings.

So it's essential that we do this consciously because they learn from how we:

• Respond when things go wrong
• Handle big emotions
• Repair after conflict
• Treat ourselves when we’re struggling

As mothers, this may seem like yet another huge responsibility we have to carry - but don't worry: 

The Giraffe Circle exists so you don’t have to carry it alone.

What is The Giraffe Circle?

The Giraffe Circle is a community for heart-led, busy working mums who want to:

• Feel calmer and less reactive at home
• Communicate with more clarity and compassion
• Reconnect with themselves, not just their roles
• Model emotional intelligence and empathy to their children
• Slow down without guilt

At the heart of the community is a learning hub, where you’ll be introduced to the core elements of Giraffe-Speak and how to be more giraffe in a gentle, non-judgemental way — at your own pace, in your own time. 

The hub comprises a mixture of self-paced courses, live workshops and events, together with opportunities for genuine connection with real women who understand the challenges of modern-day mothering. 

Inside the community, you'll find:

• Short, accessible foundational teachings
• Practical tools and prompts you can use in real life
• Tips and resources for sharing Giraffe-Speak with your children
• Opportunities to reflect, share and receive support
• An emphasis on self-empathy, rest and acceptance — not fixing yourself

If The Giraffe Circle is calling you, join the waiting list and be among the first to know when we're ready to launch.

Before opening the doors, I’d love to understand what busy mums actually need — so this community can truly support you.

When you click to join the waiting list you'll be asked to complete a short survey. It takes just a few minutes, and your answers will help shape The Giraffe Circle. 

I look forward to meeting you on the inside.