174 - Krystal's single mum story (Part 1)

Single Mother Survival Guide

Krystal met the man who would become the father of her children straight after she finished university. For seven years they were inseparable. They travelled together, they had a great relationship, they were in love. Krystal thought they were going to get married, have lots of children, and be together forever.

When Krystal was 25 she fell pregnant with her son. After he was born there was a shift in her relationship with her partner, something wasn't right. But she chose to give him the benefit of the doubt. Two years later she fell pregnant again, with her daughter.

When her daughter was just three months old, and her son was a toddler she discovered her partner's secret - he was living a double life. And that is when her whole world was turned upside down.

In this episode, Krystal shares her story. She talks about how she discovered her partner's infidelity, and how afterwards he openly continued his affair whilst she sat at home breastfeeding their baby and looking after their toddler. Krystal also shares how looking back, deep down, she knew of his affairs, but she didn’t want to admit it to herself, and how dealing with the heartbreak and being a mum at the same time was the hardest thing she has ever experienced.

Krystal also talks about why setting boundaries with her ex was essential, how she worked three part-time jobs to support her children, accepting that her partner wouldn't change and letting go of that hope, riding the co-parenting roller coaster, and how therapy saved her life.

When Krystal discovered the affair, the thought of being a single mum terrified her. She had also become a woman who no longer recognised herself. But over time, she reconnected with the goal-driven go-getter, fun-loving, and independent woman that she used to be.

Krystal is a true inspiration.

This is Part 1 of a two-part episode. Part 2 will be released next week.

Links mentioned in the episode:

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