How I’m Rebuilding Life as a Mom: From Chaos to Calm, One Step (and Side Hustle) at a Time

Not too long ago, I found myself staring at the ceiling at 2 a.m., wondering, “Is this really how life is supposed to be?”
After nearly two decades working as a Quantity Surveyor — juggling construction deadlines, motherhood, and the weight of my own unspoken dreams — I knew something had to change.

This blog post isn’t just a story.
It’s a truth-filled reflection of how I started over, with nothing more than my kids by my side, a spark of hope in my heart, and the belief that I could still create something beautiful from scratch.

💔 Letting Go of the Old Life

As a QS, I was trained to quantify and manage costs — but no one ever taught me how to measure the emotional toll of a life that didn’t reflect who I was becoming.
The spreadsheets made sense, but my heart didn’t.

The burnout from chasing everything except what mattered — my peace, purpose, and passions — became too loud to ignore.

I didn’t choose to be an “independent mom” in the traditional sense.
I chose it because I needed to reclaim my life, my voice, and the future I wanted for myself and my children.

🌱 Finding Strength in Writing & Creating

I’ve always been a dreamer. And deep inside, there was this quiet voice whispering, “Write your story. Create something real. Share what you’ve learned.”

So I listened.

I started journaling again. I opened my laptop and began writing about parenting, health, healing, and side hustles.
Slowly, I turned my ideas into blog posts, e-books, social content, and even soothing music for others like me — women who crave peace and purpose.

I used to write reports, BOQs, and tender documents.
Now, I write stories. I create digital tools for other moms. I compose music.
And with every word and note, I reclaim a piece of myself I had set aside for far too long.

Writing became my therapy.
Creating became my fuel.

🧰 Building a Side Hustle That Reflects Me

With zero funds but a heart full of grit, I started building digital assets:

• ✅ A blog where I share stories, guides, and tools
• ✅ E-books based on my journey as a mom, wellness seeker, and creative
• ✅ Affiliate content tied to things I truly believe in (like Aulora Kodenshi, Zinnia Detox, VSchool Online)
• ✅ My music channel, Little Phoenix Sounds, born from quiet evenings composing lullabies for my kids

None of it was perfect.
But it was mine.
And that gave me the energy to keep going.

💡 Lessons I’m Learning Along the Way

1. Consistency > Perfection.
   I show up, even on tired days. Even when my content isn’t “viral.” I’m building trust with myself.
2. Small steps are still steps.
   Every blog post, every mini product, every connection made — it matters.
3. Being independent doesn’t mean doing it alone.
   I’ve leaned into online communities, digital tools, and kind mentors who remind me: I’m not in this alone.

🔥 What Keeps Me Going?

• 👩‍👧‍👦 My kids. Their smiles remind me why I’m building a future on my own terms.
• 🕒 The dream of time freedom. To no longer be chained to a 9-6 life or the pressure of being “the responsible one” all the time.
• ❤️ The fire to inspire. If my story helps even one mom believe in herself again, then I’ve done something meaningful.

💖 If You’re Rebuilding Too…

I see you. I am you.

You don’t need everything figured out.
Start where you are, with what you have.
Your story, your voice, your skills — they’re enough to begin.

Let’s create, heal, and grow — together.
This is just the beginning, and I’m so grateful you’re here with me.

📝 Want to Start Rebuilding Too?

Grab my free guide: “10 Digital Side Hustles for Moms with Zero Tech Skills”
Perfect for those ready to turn their story into income — while raising kids and reclaiming their lives.

📥 Download it here – FREE!

With heart,
– Kerenh Wong
Founder of NurtureBuiltGrowth