We all have aspects we wish we could change, and my list is far from short. Yet, why not embrace our imperfections? It’s unrealistic to expect ourselves to be as witty as Tina Fey, as fit as Michelle Obama, or to recover from childbirth like Meghan Markle. I let go of the idea of being a saint years ago. I mean, I don’t even help out with the neighborhood book club! But that’s okay; I choose to accept my wonderfully imperfect self. Here’s what I’ve learned to embrace:
- I Have Vulnerabilities. I’ve stopped battling them because, honestly, I enjoy my guilty pleasures—coffee, wine, and shoes are my trifecta. I know I probably overindulge, but I’m not ready to give them up. Guilt won’t stop me from enjoying life.
- I Can Be Outrageous. My lack of a filter means some appreciate my humor, while others might find it off-putting. I’ve tried to tone it down, but accepting my quirky, sometimes crass nature is more liberating and fun.
- I Prefer Home. Getting my family out the door is a monumental task, so I’d rather keep things cozy at home. The thought of holiday travel sends me into a panic. I treasure my space—even if that means being a bit of a hermit.
- I Like Order. I have a very specific way of doing things, and compromising is not my strong suit. This tendency has only intensified since becoming a parent. After all, when you have kids, it’s every mom for herself!
- Playing Is Not My Thing. I cherish time with my kids but can’t bring myself to engage in imaginative play. I love teaching them skills and sharing experiences, but pretending to be a dinosaur is just not my jam.
- I Enjoy Being in Charge. One of the perks of parenthood is the ability to call the shots. It’s sometimes a challenge when others don’t follow my lead, though!
- Patience Is Not My Virtue. I strive to be kind, but patience is a constant struggle. I’ve tried to improve, but it seems to be a genetic trait I cannot shake.
- Dining Out Is My Weakness. I love the luxury of being served. I have go-to restaurants where they know my preferences, and I can indulge without the hassle of cooking. It’s a treat I look forward to after a long day.
- Target Is My Temptation. I’m sure I could find support for my obsession, but why would I want to? Target is a wonderland—where else can I shop for everything from groceries to trendy clothes, all while enjoying a cake pop?
- I Overthink Everything. My mind can spiral into anxiety over things I care about deeply. But then there are moments where I’m utterly indifferent. It’s a rollercoaster, and I’ve learned to accept it as part of who I am.
- Being Polite Can Be Challenging. While I know I should model good behavior for my children, it’s difficult to be civil to those I don’t care for. If I’m not feeling it, I won’t pretend otherwise.
- My Ambitions Often Fizzle. I start projects with enthusiasm, only to lose steam midway through. After gathering supplies while juggling my kids, I often find myself too exhausted to follow through. Instead, I pour a glass of wine and contemplate my motivations.
I wish I could say my journey to self-acceptance was a product of deep reflection or meditation, but the truth is, it was about recognizing that change is exhausting. I’ve tried to fix my flaws, but self-acceptance is much simpler. If you’re on a similar journey, I invite you to join me. If you’re interested in other aspects of parenting, check out our post on at-home insemination kits. For a deeper understanding of fertility treatments, visit this resource. And if you’re looking for information on IVF, check out this excellent resource.
Summary
Embracing imperfections can lead to a more fulfilling life. By acknowledging our flaws—whether they be vulnerabilities, a lack of patience, or a penchant for dining out—we can find joy in being ourselves. This journey towards self-acceptance is far less draining than striving for unattainable perfection.