Kate Ferdinand has admitted to struggling with "step-mum" guilt as she balances family life across two countries. The former The Only Way Is Essex star moved to Dubai with husband Rio Ferdinand and their children Tia, 14, Cree, four, and daughter Shae, two.
Rio's two older children, Lorenz, 19, and Tate, 18, remained in the UK to pursue their football careers. Kate, 35, confessed she has been overthinking as she juggles the two locations.
Opening Up on Instagram
In a candid Instagram post, Kate explained why she had been quiet recently. She said: "I've got nothing to post. But really, I have so much to post. I started feeling like none of it was worth sharing because it didn't fit the version you are used to seeing of me on Instagram. Yet these moments actually make up the majority of my life. So here's a little glimpse into the parts that don't always make it on here."
She continued: "I have five kids across two countries, I'm navigating motherhood and trying to be everything for everyone. Lately, I've been struggling with mum/ step mum guilt and missing everyone living in the same home.
Balancing Businesses and Confidence
Kate revealed she is building two businesses and admitted to facing self-doubt and setbacks. She also opened up about struggling with adult acne for over a year, which knocked her confidence. She said she has been hiding behind makeup but is "finally starting to try and embrace no makeup and my imperfections."
She added: "I've had a reality check recently, and it's impossible to do everything (I've tried). I put so much pressure on myself to do it all and it leads to burnout. I love keeping fit and feeling good, but I am no longer able to work out 5x a week, be there to take my kids to school and work."
Family Reactions
Kate shared photos without makeup, moments with Tia, and images of the older boys working out in the UK. This is not the first time she has spoken about difficulties since leaving the UK. On her Blended podcast in July, co-host Nathalie revealed how Tate and Lorenz initially reacted to the idea of more siblings.
Nathalie said: "This is reminding me of Tate and Lorenz when Kate and Rio first got together. They said, 'Oh, if they have a baby, we're going to put it in the cupboard'." Kate nodded in agreement and explained the boys were not supportive of another baby at first, though they did not follow through on the threat.
