Mom Talk with Petra Ninčević: How to Balance Motherhood, Work, and Social Media

Who Were the Guests of Mom Talk?

The discussion took place in the beautiful setting of the Felixar Pool Bar at Arba Resort, during sunset, and featured Dorin Zelenika (@dorinlucissima), Ana Pulić (@annie.xo.xo), and Ivana Brez Murk (@pssst.citam). Each guest, both a mum and an entrepreneur as well as an influencer, shared her story, experiences, and practical advice,  from sleepless nights and nappy changes to entrepreneurship, creativity, and setting boundaries in the online world.  The conversation was moderated by Petra Ninčević (@lipstick_mom_petra), herself a mum and successful entrepreneur.

An honest and inspiring discussion on motherhood, career, and balance marked the Mom Talk gathering at Arba Resort.

The Challenges of Motherhood and How to Cope with Them

When asked what motherhood had taught them about themselves, the guests agreed that one of the most important things is self-control and the ability to find balance – even when they feel “on the edge”. The constant anticipation of different scenarios and worries is something all mothers share, often leaving them feeling tense.

“Balance doesn’t really exist – I’m constantly on the edge,” 

Ana Pulić said with a laugh.

A relaxed atmosphere and heartfelt conversation defined the Mom Talk evening at Arba Resort on the island of Rab.

Aside from the small trick of taking a deep breath and sharing a hug, quality rest also plays a big role in helping mums handle the challenges of motherhood more easily.

As the photos show, all the guests were smiling and in great spirits – something no doubt helped by the relaxing atmosphere at Arba Resort and the time spent with their children through unstructured play, themed workshops, and fun educational activities. During Arba Family Moments, families enjoyed a joint workshop making the island’s traditional dessert, Rab cake, and the photos clearly show how much the children loved it.

The little ones enjoyed the creative Rab cake workshop during the family event at Arba Resort.

The Fulfilling Moments of Parenthood

Although their everyday lives are filled with challenges, the guests highlighted the emotional moments that make motherhood so rewarding.  Ana recalled coming home from the hospital and spending the first fifteen days with her newborn and close family as one of her happiest memories.  Dorin spoke about the empathy between her son and daughter, saying it’s proof that she and her husband must be doing something right when she sees her older boy comforting his little sister. Ivana admitted that positive feedback from teachers and nursery staff always moves her, from the early nursery years to school days.

How Motherhood Shaped Their Careers

All speakers agreed that motherhood had influenced their professional choices, though in different ways.  Ana swapped her demanding seasonal job,  working 12 to 14 hours a day,  for running her own business, and later began creating video content on TikTok.  Dorin shared her experience of feeling unsatisfied and burnt out during the first few years of motherhood; with her family’s support, she took an entrepreneurial leap and pursued her passion for art. When her children were small, Ivana explored and wrote about family-friendly hotels, later moving into publishing and translation,  which eventually became her career.

One could say that for each of them, a hobby eventually became a profession –  and their courage was the key to achieving their goals.

“I want my children to be proud of me, just like they are of their dad

when he played at the World Championship,” said Dorin Zelenika.

Dorin Zelenika enjoying an open conversation about motherhood, work, and life balance at Arba Resort.

The Role of Social Media in Building a Professional Identity

An inevitable topic of discussion was social media and its impact on their work.  Petra shared how she started her blog during maternity leave when she felt lonely and craved community support. Since then, she has built a thriving online community where mums openly share advice and encouragement across social media platforms. Ana began filming videos with cleaning hacks quite spontaneously, which soon gained her a large following and a loyal community awaiting her tips.  For Dorin, social media became an emotional outlet and a kind of digital diary.

When asked how they maintain peace of mind online and deal with negative comments, each guest had her own approach. They agreed that the “block” option always exists – and none of them regretted making social media part of their personal and professional identities. They are also aware of the importance of online safety and setting clear boundaries.

Finding Balance and Recharging

Each mum agreed that to be a good mother, wife, and friend, she must first feel content within herself. Having an outlet, a way to recharge, is essential.

Mom Talk participants finding inner peace and balance through a morning yoga session at Arba Resort.

Dorin has been involved in sport her whole life: she danced professionally, has played tennis since childhood, and now enjoys Pilates. She also loves reading and sharing experiences with other women through her Book Club.  Ivana is also a book lover, enjoys relaxing with a good series, and practices yoga and dance regularly.  Ana admitted she’s not a huge fan of physical activity, but Pilates helps her stay balanced, as does reading.

Petra concluded that physical activity, reading, and salsa dancing – “a dance for all generations”  – are her favourite outlets that she’s not willing to give up for anything.

Arba Resort – The Vision of an Ideal Holiday

In addition to all those personal outlets, rest itself is one of the most important.  For these mums, the ideal holiday means having time both for themselves and for their families.  At Arba Resort, they can enjoy both relaxing moments for self-care at the Balance Mediterranean Spa Centre with natural treatments, saunas, jacuzzis, and the Vitality Bar – as well as precious family time together.

The Balance Mediterranean Spa Centre at Arba Resort offers exclusive treatments featuring premium Natura Bissé products.

The Main Message of Mom Talk

The key takeaway from this Mom Talk was the importance of setting boundaries, nurturing hobbies, sharing experiences, and supporting other women.  All participants agreed that women can have it all – just not all at once. With community support and time for themselves, they can find their rhythm.

“We can have it all,

just not all at the same time,”  mums agreed.

The evening concluded with Rab-inspired cocktails – a symbolic toast to all the mothers courageously balancing their love for their children, their work, and their dreams.