Drew Barrymore recently opened up about her experiences with parenting and navigating life as a single mom, and let me tell you, she’s got some real insights to share. In a chat with You Magazine, she reflected on her journey over the past few years, including her divorce from art consultant Tom Harrison in 2016 and her day-to-day life raising her two daughters, Mia (9) and Zoe (7).
The Reality of Single Motherhood
Drew emphasized that being a single mom is no walk in the park and that there’s nothing easy about parenting in general. “I’m honest because I don’t want to be seen as someone who has it all figured out,” she shared. “I can’t relate to those who seem to breeze through life or parenting. I connect with the struggle, overcoming challenges, the humor, and the chaos that comes with it. I can’t stand fake personas.”
Keeping It Real About Motherhood
This isn’t the first time Drew, now 46, has kept it real about her life and motherhood. She’s been candid about everything from the guilt that comes with being a working mom to the struggle of finding time to chill out after having kids, along with her battle with weight and diet culture. And don’t even get her started on eyebrow grooming!
Having gone through two short marriages before, her third marriage to the father of her kids was the one that truly tested her. Coming from a broken family herself, she was devastated by the divorce. “It was my worst nightmare,” she admitted. “I never wanted my kids to go through that. I felt completely shattered. I made significant changes to my life just before the pandemic hit, and I can’t imagine where I would be if I hadn’t. I barely managed to keep my head above water before everything changed.”
Overcoming Challenges
Drew is no stranger to drama; her life has been a rollercoaster of public ups and downs. After her divorce, she experienced what she described as a “breakdown” that prompted her to relocate across the country. “I definitely had a long, juicy breakdown,” she recalled. “You have to believe that you’ll bounce back, but it felt especially daunting since my kids were involved. Parenting is the most important thing, but raising young ones is both thrilling and terrifying.”
Now, Drew feels like she’s on the other side of that tumultuous phase, even if she acknowledges that life and parenting are always a work in progress. She and Tom have managed to find common ground, which has been no small feat. “We’ve worked so hard over the years. It was really tough. Those who make co-parenting seem effortless — good for them,” she said. “Our journey was messy and painful at times, but we always focused on what was best for our daughters. It’s taken five years to get to this point, but I’m grateful we didn’t give up. High road, baby. Less traffic.”
A New Perspective on Co-Parenting
Drew’s current perspective is refreshing; she even has love for Tom’s new wife, whom he married last summer. “She’s amazing: kind, sweet, and funny. I have to remember to give them their space, though,” she shared. “I feel so blessed. She embraces me and wants me involved, which is rare. I admire her and her family so much.”
Learning as She Goes
When it comes to parenting, Drew keeps it real and admits she’s learning as she goes, especially since she lacks parental role models. “When people discussed parenting, I often felt like an outsider,” she confessed. “It took me a while to gather the courage to ask others for help. Can you teach me?”
Drawing from her upbringing in the spotlight as a child actor, Drew is determined to avoid repeating past mistakes. Her kids steer clear of social media, and she does her best to shelter them from the toxic parts of Hollywood culture that impacted her negatively. “I joke about being a doberman mom, but I truly hope my experiences help me be a better parent,” she said. “I want them to be kids in a world where age and body image are constantly scrutinized. I faced a lot of rejection growing up, and I don’t want that for them.”
Embracing Vulnerability
One of the key things Drew has learned? Her struggles can make her a better mom. “I know I’m not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s alright. But I hope my experiences help me be the best mom I can be.”
Resources for Aspiring Parents
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Conclusion
In summary, Drew Barrymore’s candid reflections on her parenting journey remind us all that while parenting can be chaotic and challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. Her willingness to embrace vulnerability and authenticity serves as a reminder that none of us are alone in our struggles.
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