Strictly’s Stacey Dooley says she’s ‘just trying to survive’ after a major family change

Stacey Dooley, the beloved winner of *Strictly Come Dancing* in 2018, recently opened up about the profound impact motherhood has had on her life and career.

On the popular podcast *Parenting Hell*, Stacey shared her thoughts on navigating the challenges of parenting while juggling a demanding job in the media.

Since welcoming her daughter, Minnie, with former dance partner Kevin Clifton, her priorities have undergone a significant shift.

Redefining Priorities as a New Mother

In her candid discussion, Dooley revealed that her perception of work and risk has dramatically changed since becoming a mother.

In the past, she frequently traveled to some of the world’s most dangerous areas to cover critical issues—from uncovering sex trafficking in Cambodia to documenting the turmoil faced by Yazidi women in Syria.

Now, she is more selective about the assignments she accepts, prioritizing her family over her career in ways she never thought possible.

“If it doesn’t work for Minnie, then I can’t do it,” she stated, underscoring her newfound commitment to being a present and responsible parent.

This shift in priorities has led her to turn down various offers that would require her to be away from home extensively, as she seeks to maintain a healthy work-life balance while ensuring her daughter’s well-being.

Finding Joy in Domestic Stories

Stacey has now gravitated toward projects that focus on home-based topics, reveling in the stability that these chosen stories provide.

She expressed her happiness in balancing work with her responsibilities as a mother, explaining that turning her attention to more domestic issues has allowed her to adjust to her new life.

“I could do with not [dying],” she humorously remarked, signaling a shift to a more cautious mindset as she navigates both her career and motherhood.

This contemplation of safety has brought about a refreshing perspective in Dooley’s work, leading her to explore stories that resonate with her while aligning with her parenting philosophy.

She feels grateful for the experiences that come with motherhood, echoing her sentiments with phrases like “I’m so thrilled, like, thank God, I just did it.”

This acknowledgment of her journey as a mother signifies her appreciation for the transformations it has ignited in her professional life as well.

Balancing Public Life and Family Privacy

Despite her busy schedule, Dooley is keen on keeping certain aspects of her family life out of the spotlight.

She shares delightful snippets of her journey occasionally, treating her fans to glimpses of her cherished moments, such as celebrating Minnie’s second birthday with heartfelt joy.

This balance between showcasing her family and protecting their privacy reflects her intent to navigate the public eye as a devoted mother.

In the ever-evolving landscape of her life, Stacey is committed to ensuring her relationship with her daughter remains strong while also fulfilling her professional aspirations.

The adjustments she has made highlight her resilience and adaptability as she balances the demands of her career with her responsibilities as a parent.

As Stacey Dooley embraces the rollercoaster of motherhood, it is evident that she is not just surviving but thriving—and doing so with a laugh and a love for her family. Fans and followers are undoubtedly eager to see how this next chapter unfolds, as she continues to blend her roles as an award-winning journalist and a dedicated mother.

With each story and experience shared, Stacey invites us into her journey—a testament to the resilience of women navigating the complexities of parenting while pursuing their dreams.