Fabienne: How my mom became my biggest inspiration

As a child, I often looked at my mom and wondered why she was so different from other moms. My mom has an intellectual disability, which means her mental age is somewhere between 12 and 16 years old. This is reflected in her behavior, her interests, and even her wardrobe. She always wears Disney pajamas and collects Disney figurines. Her whole life is a celebration of the playful, joyful, and innocent world of childhood.

I used to find that hard to understand. Why wasn’t my mom like other adults? Why didn’t she act the way I thought a “normal” mom would? But now, years later, I see just how valuable her outlook on life truly is.

From shame to admiration

As a teenager, I sometimes felt uncomfortable with my mom’s behavior. Her childlike nature was so far removed from what I thought “being an adult” meant. But as I grew older, my perspective shifted. What I once saw as “strange” in her way of living, I’ve come to appreciate as a unique strength.

When you talk to my mom, it’s clear that she sees the world through a childlike lens. Her conversations are often simple, pure, and disarmingly honest. What used to frustrate me now deeply inspires me. That childlike perspective holds a kind of purity that many adults lose as they grow older. My mom shows that it’s perfectly okay to stay true to that part of yourself.

Nurturing the Inner Child

We all have an inner child, but not everyone allows it space to exist. My mom does this so naturally that it’s become a role model for me. She enjoys simple things: her Disney collection, watching cartoons, and creating cute AI-generated images. For her, these aren’t just hobbies; they’re a way of life. By doing these things, she stays connected to her true self.

She’s shown me how important it is to make room for the things that bring you joy, no matter how simple or “childish” they may seem. Whether it’s wearing Disney pajamas or spending hours watching your favorite cartoons, these moments of playfulness connect you to your inner child.

Authenticity as a strength

What I’ve learned from my mom is that the greatest gift you can give yourself is to be authentic. That means not conforming to other people’s expectations but staying true to who you are. My mom doesn’t conform to what society expects of adults. And because of that, she radiates a kind of purity that touches others.

My mom’s world doesn’t revolve around prestige, competition, or what others think of her. Her world revolves around what makes her happy: Disney, cuteness, and embracing simple joys. Her attitude has taught me that you don’t have to fit into what others consider “normal.” By being unique and walking your own path, you can become a powerful example.

Inspiration for everyone

My mom is my greatest inspiration, not in spite of her childlike nature, but because of it. She reminds me how valuable it is to give your inner child the attention it deserves. Whether it’s collecting things that make you happy, wearing clothes that bring you joy, or simply embracing a childlike perspective in daily life, these are the things that help you stay true to yourself.

I hope this story inspires you to connect with your inner child. What brought you joy as a kid? What can you do to relive that feeling today? My mom has taught me that embracing that part of yourself isn’t just enriching—it’s empowering. Life isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being authentic. And that might just be the greatest wisdom your inner child can offer.

Thanks for reading!
Fabienne 

(https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabienne-van-seggelen/)