Rachel Macy Stafford

Rachel Macy Stafford is a NYT bestselling author and founder of www.handsfreemama.com. In her newly released book, LIVE LOVE NOW, Rachel does what she does best: she lovingly encourages, guides, and challenges us to be better than we've been. Through honest storytelling and small, tangible steps, Rachel shows us that simple changes yield positive results. LIVE LOVE NOW equips 21st century parents with tools for 21st century parenting that have the power to transform your home and heart into a healthier, happier place. Join Rachel at The Hands Free Revolution on Facebook and Instagram for more inspiration and encouragement.

Life

The one question I ask myself when I feel my anger rising

I commonly ask myself this when the control freak inside me began to get agitated.

Life

I’m saving summer from the screens this year

Because when I was a kid, summer was an all-senses experience.

Life

I chose compassion during morning meltdowns—and it has made all the difference

My reaction to my child's situation held the power to save a morning, to save a heart from worry.

Life

I became a more peaceful parent by letting go of distractions and ‘perfection’

We can teach our children that peace builds bridges—bridges that can carry us over in times of trouble. ✌️️

Life

These 3 words changed the way I parent—and made me kinder to myself, too

And made me realize I had been a bully.

Life

When I started noticing the small signs of beauty, it made the biggest difference

When you notice and acknowledge the low-hanging fruits of everyday life, gratitude has the potential to spread to those around you.

Life

How I stopped yelling + became a calmer mama

3. Look your loved one directly in the eye before responding

Parenting

Fewer tasks + more acceptance: How I helped my child’s spirit flourish

Children respond better to loving encouragement than rigid tasks.

Life

Choosing joy over anger isn’t easy—but it’s oh-so worth it

When you choose to be joyful, you attract joy like a magnet.

Mental Health

The day I stopped saying ‘hurry up’ and started enjoying motherhood

Pausing to delight in the simple joys of everyday life is the only way to truly live.

Child

Dear child: Let’s make this the summer of ‘yes’

It was the summer their mama could have spent hunched over the keys of her computer, but she didn't.

Parenting

How I let go of distractions + ‘perfection’ and became a more peaceful parent

We can teach our children that peace builds bridges—bridges that can carry us over in times of trouble. ✌️️