There’s a saying that becoming a mother is like having your heart permanently floating outside your body. This sentiment rings true in ways I never anticipated. As soon as we step into the world of parenting, we find ourselves in a constant state of concern, compounded by unrealistic expectations of perfection.
The standards set by society can feel almost ludicrous. It’s not just about keeping up with our neighbors; we’re trying to measure up to the idealized version of parenting from classic television shows. A little reminder, though: even the actress portraying the perfect mom in those shows, like June Cleaver, faced her own challenges in real life, navigating the struggles of single motherhood. If she couldn’t embody that ideal, why should we even try?
As mothers, we’re tasked with meeting every basic need of another human being while simultaneously being their entertainers, all while maintaining a pristine living environment. We are expected to teach impeccable manners and manage our children’s outbursts in line with the ever-changing opinions of onlookers.
The societal checklist for motherhood is endless: a flawless marriage, a tidy home, a family vehicle, and a sporty car to boot. We must possess infinite patience, never showing frustration, and prepare meals that are not only healthy but also Instagram-ready. No screen time is allowed, and our daily schedules must flow like a perfectly orchestrated symphony.
All of this is to be accomplished despite chronic sleep deprivation, fatigue, and often minimal support from others. And let’s not forget to maintain that picture-perfect smile, curating every milestone for social media.
So why do we buy into this absurd narrative about what we “should” be achieving? Why are we so harsh on ourselves and on each other regarding our parenting choices? At the end of the day, aren’t we all just striving to do our best and give our children a happy life?
The values I want to instill in my child revolve around sportsmanship and kindness, not competitiveness. I aim to teach him to celebrate others’ successes and to cherish those who cheer him on.
I commit to leading by example. While a bit of healthy competition can be motivating, it has become excessive in the realm of parenting. I am waving the white flag! I accept that I may never be the star baker at school events, throw the ultimate birthday bash for a toddler, or fulfill every wish of my child’s heart. And you know what? I’m perfectly okay with that. I might not be the “best” mom according to societal standards, but in my son’s eyes, I am his whole world—and that’s good enough for me!
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In summary, embracing the concept of “good enough” allows us to be more compassionate towards ourselves and others in the challenging journey of motherhood. We must recognize that, while perfection is unattainable, our love and effort are what truly matter.