Finding Joy in Alternative Motherhood

One of the best things about my blogging journey has been the amazing friendships I’ve developed along the way. I met Sarah Thompson through our shared interest in using social media to connect with readers—especially since her book launched in 2014. In “Auntie Life: The Ultimate Guide for Cool Aunts and All Women Who Love Kids,” Sarah highlights the joyful connections between “aunties” and their nieces, nephews, and godchildren. Knowing that Sarah has spent a lot of time pondering happiness, I was excited to hear her insights.

What’s a simple activity that consistently lifts your spirits?

I love calling my nieces and nephew just to hear their voices. It never fails to brighten my day.

What’s something you’ve learned about happiness that you didn’t know at 18?

Back in my teenage years, I thought happiness came from being popular. Now I realize that it’s often the other way around; true happiness can lead to meaningful connections and popularity.

Do you have a mantra that helps you find happiness?

“Just keep going.” A close friend reminds me of this whenever I share a win; she believes that more good things will come if I maintain a positive outlook.

Is there anything people around you do that enhances or detracts from their happiness?

I’ve definitely experienced this myself. In my mid-30s, I spent too much time thinking about what I didn’t have—a partner or children—rather than embracing who I was: a loving aunt and a passionate businesswoman. When I shifted my self-talk from “childless” to “childfull,” focusing on the joy I find in my relationships with kids, I discovered that happiness is something we define for ourselves. This realization inspired me to create AuntieLife.com in 2008 and write my book. Many women have found immense joy in their roles as aunts and godmothers, and that brings happiness to us all.

Do you actively work on your happiness?

Every single day! I practice the art of letting go—not giving up but recognizing that the results of our actions aren’t always immediate or obvious. If I try something that I think will make me happy but it doesn’t pan out, I trust that future successes might come from unexpected avenues. Learning to let go of rigid definitions of happiness and to stay open to various sources of joy is my greatest journey. I firmly believe in happiness, and that belief fuels my pursuit of it.

For more insights like this, check out this blog post.

In summary, Sarah’s journey reveals that happiness can be redefined, especially in roles like being an aunt or godmother. By embracing our unique paths and maintaining a positive mindset, we can cultivate joy in our lives.