“Having Children Saved Me,” Angelina Jolie Reflects on Motherhood in NEW Candid Interview

As a mother of six, Angelina Jolie has learned numerous parenting lessons over the years. She successfully managed three adoptions and supported her children during her divorce. In a rare and candid interview, Jolie shares her thoughts on the profound impact of parenthood on her life, career, and her role as a global advocate.

Angelina works hard to set the right example for her kids.

Jolie takes her role as a mother very seriously. She realizes that it’s up to her to raise 6 people who will make this world a little bit better, and one of the ways to do that is to start with herself: “[Being a parent] is the greatest gift and responsibility. It means doing everything you can to live by your values and try to be an example for your children. I try to lead by example, being conscious of others, and being responsible. And to help them have a broader view of the world.”

The impact of motherhood on Jolie

In the interview for Vogue, Angelina Jolie pondered her role as a mother. “My entire life changed,” she said. “Having children saved me — and taught me to be in this world differently.

“I would’ve gone under in a much darker way had I not wanted to live for them,” she added.

Currently, Jolie embarks on a fresh fashion endeavor, with her children actively contributing to the Atelier Jolie team, offering their distinct viewpoints. She said: “I would’ve gone under in a much darker way had I not wanted to live for them.”

Jolie has consistently nurtured her children’s self-discovery throughout their growth. “I don’t tell the kids how to dress. Even when they were little, I just put things in front of them,” she told Vogue.

Jolie appeared to look forward with enthusiasm to the upcoming stages of motherhood as her children mature and become more independent. She expressed, “I see them taking over so many different aspects of our family.”

But she also knows there’s no virtue in perfection.

One of the biggest realizations Angelina has shared with everyone is that parents do no favors to their kids by trying to appear perfect. This behavior sets unrealistic expectations for the kids in their future, and nobody benefits from that. She said: “It is a lovely thing to discover that your children don’t want you to be perfect. They just want you to be honest. And doing your best. In fact, the more room they have to be great where you are weak, the stronger they may become. They love you. They want to help you.”

Jolie believes it’s okay to show vulnerability occasionally and allow your kids to be there for you. This will only strengthen your family: “So in the end, it’s the team you build. And in a way, they are raising you up too. You grow together.”

Previously, Angie had already shared her thoughts on trying to be a perfect parent, and it’s something everyone needs to hear: “We probably all have this idea — I know I did before I had kids — that to be a perfect mother, you have to be a perfect person, and that’s just not true. You have to do your best and be willing to put your child before you.”

Other parenting insights Jolie has shared over the years

On wanting to shield your kids from bad things: “Knowing our true self is a very important question for all of us. Especially a child. I think kids need to be able to say, ‘Here’s who I am and what I believe.’ We can’t prevent them from experiencing pain, heartache, physical pain, and loss. But we can teach them to live better through it.”

On teaching kids to be grounded: “Kindness — to others and themselves. It’s important to be humble — know your freedoms and what you’ve been blessed with, and make sure you help others. And always remember your place — we’re all human and very flawed. We’re tiny pieces in a much bigger world.”

On staying strong for your kids’ sake: “I was very worried about my mother growing up—a lot. I do not want my children to be worried about me. I think it’s very important to cry in the shower and not in front of them. They need to know that everything’s going to be all right, even when you’re not sure it is.”

Angelina Jolie’s approach to motherhood is truly admirable. Her journey as a mother of six, marked by challenges and triumphs, reflects her unwavering dedication and love for her children. Jolie exemplifies the essence of a loving and empowering mother and proves that she does have a heart of gold.