As single parents, we’re often masters of juggling. We keep households running, support our children through ups and downs, and carry an invisible load of responsibilities. But in the process, many of us also end up “playing small” - putting ourselves last, ignoring our own needs, or shrinking to keep the peace.

It’s something Jennifer Muscatel, founder of Single Mom Society and this week’s Frolo Podcast guest, knows all too well. Through her journey, she’s learned that playing small might feel safe in the moment, but over time it chips away at our self-worth. And when we start to reclaim our voice and our value, everything changes.

So what does it mean to stop playing small, and how can we start?

Listening to your intuition

How many times have you brushed off your gut feeling, only to wish later you’d trusted it? Ignoring our intuition is one of the most common ways we play small. It might look like going along with something we’re not comfortable with, giving people the benefit of the doubt when red flags are waving, or convincing ourselves “it’s not that bad.”

Learning to trust our gut is powerful. Next time you feel that quiet nudge, pause and ask: Is this an authentic choice? Is it true to me? The answers are usually there, if we’re brave enough to listen.

For more on learning to trust your instincts, this Psychology Today article on intuition is a great starting point.

Boundaries are not selfish

Many single parents fall into the trap of saying yes when we mean no, or letting things slide to avoid conflict. But boundaries aren’t selfish, they’re essential. They protect our energy, model self-respect for our children, and strengthen our relationships.

Think about an area of life where you feel resentful, it’s often a sign that a boundary is missing. It might mean telling a friend you need more reliability, asking for support at work, or clarifying expectations with a co-parent. Boundaries don’t have to be walls; they can be clear, kind signposts for healthier connections.

If you’d like some practical tips, Brené Brown’s work on boundaries is incredibly helpful.

Redefining your worth

So often, our sense of worth gets tangled up in how others see us, whether it’s partners, employers, or even strangers on social media. But your worth isn’t defined by someone else’s approval.

When you begin to value yourself for who you are, not what you can do for others, you make stronger choices. That might mean leaving behind unhealthy relationships, pursuing a new career path, or simply treating yourself with the same compassion you give your children.

Choosing courage over comfort

Speaking up, setting a boundary, or walking away from a situation that doesn’t serve you can feel uncomfortable, even scary. But as Jennifer says, there are “perks of bravery.” Often, when we stop playing small, the right people, opportunities, and support appear in our lives.

Courage doesn’t always look like grand gestures. Sometimes it’s sending an honest message to a friend, saying no to something that drains you, or asking for help when you need it. Every act of courage builds a stronger foundation for you and your family.

Living large, not small

Stopping playing small isn’t about being loud or forceful, it’s about living authentically and fully. As single parents, we already know what it means to be resilient. The next step is allowing ourselves to thrive, not just survive.

That might mean reconnecting with hobbies, carving out time for self-care, or opening yourself up to new friendships and experiences. The more we show up authentically, the more we create a life that feels good for us and our children.

You don’t have to do it alone

Redefining your worth and setting boundaries can feel daunting, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. The Frolo Community is a safe, supportive space where single parents share their experiences, offer advice, and remind each other that we’re not in this alone.

From Group Chats on everything from co-parenting to confidence, to Meetups where you can connect in person or online, Frolo is here to help you feel supported every step of the way.

💜 Download the Frolo app and join the community today

Stopping playing small isn’t easy, it takes practice, courage, and self-compassion. But each time you choose to listen to your intuition, hold a boundary, or honour your worth, you’re not just transforming your own life, you’re also modelling strength and authenticity for your children.

And that is something to be proud of.

🌿 Join the Frolo community and find your people

‍