In an honest conversation with PEOPLE, renowned momfluencer Abbie Herbert shared her journey of navigating motherhood while managing a flourishing career. The social media star, who has garnered an impressive 18 million followers on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, opened up about the transformative experience of becoming a mother and the importance of seeking support from her family.
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Abbie, mother to Poppy, now five, and her two younger sons Jagger, four, and Rocky Blue, six months, has experienced the evolving challenges of motherhood since Poppy’s birth in 2018. The influencer has been candid about her struggles to balance her responsibilities as a full-time content creator and model while also raising her children. Despite the perception of having it all together, Abbie emphasised that her accomplishments are only made possible by the unwavering support from her family, particularly her husband Josh, her mother Stacie Straughn, and her sister.
Reflecting on how her family has rallied around her, Abbie highlighted a pivotal moment when she made a significant request of her mother. After Poppy reached the six-month mark, Abbie felt an urge to return to work full-time. However, the daunting costs of childcare led her to a bold decision: she asked her mother to leave her longstanding career to assist in raising her grandchildren. “I went to my mum and said, ‘Hey, would you quit your job and come work for us?'” Abbie recalled, noting that her mother was initially reluctant to retire.
Abbie’s own upbringing partly influenced her request. “Growing up, my mum had always been a working mum,” she explained. “I loved my experience in daycare, but she was never able to stay at home.” This context added depth to her mother’s eventual agreement to Abbie’s proposal, especially as they discussed the possibility of Stacie earning a salary equivalent to what she was making in her previous job.
The transition was not without hurdles; however, the decision brought the family significantly closer. Abbie shared that she eventually managed to persuade her parents to move nearer to her home in Pittsburgh from Ohio, allowing her mother to have a more hands-on role in her children’s lives. “She’s here Tuesday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and by 3:30 PM, I’m calling to see what they’re doing,” she explained, illustrating the close-knit dynamic that has since developed.
Despite the challenges associated with her request, Abbie views her situation as a blessing. “I feel blessed by all the support,” she stated. “It has helped me maintain my own identity outside of being a mum.” She candidly admitted that while motherhood is a significant part of her life, she doesn’t wish for it to define her entirely. Abbie wants to set an example for her children, demonstrating that pursuing one’s passions alongside parenting is not only possible but also fulfilling.
She passionately articulated her desire for her children to witness her pursuit of goals: “I want them to see that I didn’t give up my identity and career for them. It’s entirely valid to be a dedicated parent, but I also love working and creating,” she shared. Her vision is clear; she aims to inspire other mothers by showing that a balance can be found between work and family life.
Abbie’s lived experiences have become an essential part of her messaging online. She advocates for the importance of asking for help and prioritising self-care, especially during the challenging postpartum period. She believes that embracing the need for assistance is crucial, particularly for new mothers who may find themselves overwhelmed.
In her latest phase of life, Abbie Herbert continues to encourage others to seek and accept help, ensuring that they can thrive both as individuals and as parents. Her openness serves as a reminder that behind the glamorous facade of social media influencers, real challenges exist and community support is invaluable in overcoming them.