Book Format

By narrating my own story, I was able to “interpret, evaluate, appreciate, and relate events” (Cochran, 1997) to find meaning and purpose in past and present events. The book is divided into three major sections:  (1) “Introduction,” (2) “Looking Back, Speaking Up,” and (3) “Moving Forward.”

In the Introduction, I discuss the value of reflection, and how, by applying narrative techniques to make sense out of our life stories, we provide a structure through which we can explore the significance of our experiences.

In the second section, “Looking Back, Speaking Up,” I intermingle personal reflections on mother-daughter influences with suggestions for activities that you can do to define what lifework success means to you.

In the third section, “Moving Forward,” I describe how, by changing my work patterns, I align my actions with my values and make changes that influence my daughter’s approach to life and work.

As a Women’s Studies Evaluator and Instructor, I listen to and read other women’s stories. In The Mother-Daughter Relationship, I share my own story. I invite you to peep into vignettes of my life as I make a major job transition. As you read about my everyday struggles and muddles, mixed with occasional moments of enlightenment, you might identify with my experiences. This awareness can be a catalyst for change, enabling you to take control of and to improve the quality of your life. Together, we can pass on what we have learned to the next generation of women.

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