Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie has opened up about motherhood and the changing relationship she shares with her six children, saying she believes parents should eventually learn when to step back and allow their children to create independent lives.
The Maleficent star discussed her approach to parenting in a recent interview with L’Officiel, reflecting on the importance of giving children enough freedom to discover their own identities, ambitions and interests.
Jolie explained that while parents naturally want to guide their children and protect them, there comes a point when excessive involvement can prevent them from developing independently.
“One of the most important things, I think, is to basically not get in their way,” Jolie said.
The actress said parents can offer support and direction while still recognising that their children are individuals who have their own potential and aspirations.
She described parenting as a balance between being present when children need support and allowing them enough space to determine the direction of their own lives.
Jolie said she feels proud watching her children follow different paths rather than simply continuing the life their parents have created for them.
The actress emphasised that children eventually develop “a life separate” from their parents. In her view, a parent’s responsibility is not to dictate every decision but to encourage children to pursue what genuinely interests them.
Interestingly, Jolie also described the relationship as something that works in both directions. While she supports her children as they become adults, they also encourage her to continue pursuing her own interests and ambitions.
The actress now appears to be looking toward a new stage of her own life, one that includes more travel, creative work and engagement with communities around the world.
Jolie said she is particularly interested in having greater connection and community in the years ahead. She explained that traditional vacations and shopping are not priorities for her, as she would rather spend time experiencing different places and meeting people.
She also expressed an interest in returning to activities that have previously brought her enjoyment, including riding her motorcycle and travelling by plane.
“I envision more field work, more travel, and just being out in the world,” Jolie said, adding that she wants to get her motorcycle back and return to flying.
According to Jolie, her children are supportive of this new direction. Rather than expecting their mother to remain constantly involved in their daily lives, they now encourage her to explore the world and pursue her own interests.
Jolie shares six children — Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox and Vivienne — with her former husband Brad Pitt.
As her children continue moving toward adulthood and independence, Jolie’s comments highlight how her role as a mother is also evolving. Instead of trying to remain at the centre of their lives, she appears focused on maintaining a supportive relationship while giving them the freedom to build their own futures.
