Her name is Veronica.

“I used to be a manager,” she says. “Now, with two children, I manage what I call the ‘family business’. I do not sit at a desk all day, which makes me feel more alive and interesting than ever.”

Here are her essential tips on how to survive motherhood.

1. Do not underestimate: Your skills. It may be difficult at first, but you will succeed in being the best mother for your child. You are not born with maternal instincts, you develop them as the days go by. One day you and your child will look at each other in the eye and understand each other immediately.

2. Do not overestimate: People who are always giving advice. Mothers and mothers- in-law were young mums thirty years ago – now they are making up most of what they are saying. Accept help, but do not put up with being criticised.

3. If you need help: Say so! Meet up with other mothers, talk to friends. You will find support.

4. You won’t manage without: A husband and a cooperative, attentive father. To be a happy woman, you need good father, not a boyfriend.

5. My motto for when you are desperate: Half your problems vanish as time goes by.

Manager di Me Stessa (My own Manager)