Find your unicorn space

Definition:

Unicorn Space: Time dedicated to creative pursuits and personal passions that bring true joy and fulfillment.

One thing we’re passionate about here at The MotherFlock, is helping moms prioritize wellness, navigate shifting identities, and thrive during motherhood. It’s central to our mission, values, and purpose. Here, we want to share a concept introduced by Eve Rodsky,  that was a total game-changer in how we viewed ourself and our matrescence.

In her book, Find your Unicorn Space, Rodsky dropped a truth bomb that's about to rock your world:

You deserve a space that's 100% about YOU.

Not your kids.

Not your partner.

JUST YOU.

Let's dig in...

Are you feeling like you’ve been swallowed whole by the whirlwind of parenting?

Depleted?

Overwhelmed?

Don’t know who you are anymore?

Between diaper duty, endless chauffeuring, and the never-ending laundry pile, it’s easy to lose sight of the vibrant woman you were before motherhood. But guess what? That amazing woman is still in there, and she’s ready to break free! It’s time to discover your “unicorn space,” a concept introduced by the brilliant Eve Rodsky (author of “Fair Play” - a must-read btw!) that could transform your life.

What is A Unicorn Space?

So, what exactly is unicorn space? Think of it as your sacred time for activities that light you up and remind you of who you are beyond being a mom. It’s more than self-care, a hobby, or your job. It’s about carving out a little corner of joy in your busy life—something that’s just for YOU. Whether it’s painting, dancing, writing, or even taking up aerial yoga, unicorn space is where your passions come alive.

Why A Unicorn Space Matters

Let’s get real: motherhood is a beautiful journey, but it can also feel like a relentless cycle of snack preparation and bedtime battles. We start to feel invisible, undervalued, depleted, and like we don’t know who we are anymore. But guess what, you deserve more than that. Embracing your unicorn space isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for your mental health and happiness. When you invest time in yourself, you’re not only nurturing your own well-being but also setting a powerful example for your kids about the importance of pursuing passions and maintaining individuality. You’re teaching them that moms can be multidimensional—creative, adventurous, and downright fabulous!

The reality is, WE are the most important person in our family, and our needs matter. Pursuing your unicorn space isn’t selfish; it’s an act of self-love. You're showing your kids what a fully realized, badass woman looks like. By taking time for yourself, you’ll return to your family rejuvenated and ready to tackle whatever chaos comes your way. So, Vancouver moms, are you ready to unleash your inner unicorn? 🦄✨ It’s time to reclaim your identity and show the world (and yourself) just how fabulous you can be!

Eve Rodsky encourages you to ask yourself these questions:

  • What is your passion? 
  • What are you interested in, but have been forced to put on the top shelf in the way back of your closet? 
  • What have you let go of because there was no time for it? 
  • What makes you, you?

Your Unicorn SPace should spark…

As well as being value-driven, purposeful, creative, and separate from other obligations, ideally your unicorn space should include the following elements. It doesn’t have to be perfect… it just has to be yours.

  • Explore interests and activities that genuinely excite you, and provide complete ‘escape’

  • A true unicorn space finds a way to share your creative pursuits with others and build community around your unicorn space

  • While ever-evolving, it should have a tangible goal or outcome related to your unicorn space, such as finishing a project or achieving a milestone

Unicorn Space Ideas:

We’re so lucky to live in a vibrant city with access to a diverse art scene, surrounded by nature… the world is truly your oyster! Here are some ideas to get you going:

  • Woodworking course at Makerlabs

  • Join a local running group, or community fitness program, like F45.

  • Start gardening. Fresh air works wonders! You can take classes at community centre’s around the City of Vancouver, City Farmer, or Figaro’s Garden.

  • Intro to climbing course in Squamish

  • Start writing: whether it’s journaling, a blog, or writing a children’s book, this one is good for the soul and gets the ol’ brain cells ticking again

  • Photography course through Learn Photography Canada, local colleges, or Mamatography.

  • Join a hiking group. The Facebook group Born to be Adventurous Mamas, or this article is a good place to start.

  • Painting, ceramics, or sewing interest you? Check out this article for more local inspiration.

  • Take the Level 1 Kayaking course at Jericho beach or Deep Cove

  • Learn a language. UBC, Langara, private language schools, or online with Duolingo are all great options.

  • Join a sports league. Local soccer, ultimate, or softball leagues are a great way to meet people, get exercise, and have fun!

  • Take a hip hop dance class with Harbour Dance or Culturally Defined.

  • Of course, many of these options are costly. YouTube is your friend… teaching yourself is also an option!

Tips to make it happen

  • Start SMALL (30 minutes counts!). Then pencil it in to your schedule, like you would for an appointment. Obviously it’s harder if you’re immediately postpartum… judge when is a good time for you to get started.

  • Get your partner on board. Tell them this isn't a negotiation. They’ll soon see the benefit when they see you coming home rejuvenated.

  • Choose something that makes your soul do a happy dance; that doesn’t feel like you’re adding to your plate

Check out The Following Blog posts for more local resources & Ideas

Coming soon…

Found Your Unicorn Space in Vancouver? Tag us on Instagram (@the.motherflock)… we’d love to hear about it!

"Once I was done having kids, I thought: Who am I? I'd gained a family but lost myself."

— Eve Rodsky