Becoming a mother is often described as having your heart forever outside your body, and that sentiment rings true in ways I never anticipated. From the moment we step into motherhood, we’re enveloped in a whirlwind of worry and high expectations that seem utterly impossible to meet.
It’s not just about keeping up with the Joneses; we’re aiming for the unattainable perfection of the Cleavers! However, here’s a reality check: Barbara Billingsley, who portrayed June Cleaver, navigated life as a divorced single mom, doing her best to stay afloat. If even June couldn’t maintain that ideal, why should we hold ourselves to such impossible standards?
As moms, we juggle the fundamental responsibilities of caring for another human being while also being their entertainers, housekeepers, and educators. We’re expected to instill impeccable manners, handle temper tantrums with grace, and somehow respond to the judgmental gazes of onlookers who all have different parenting philosophies. On top of this, we’re told we need the perfect home, the ideal marriage, and a car for every occasion. Our meals must be healthy, organic, and Instagram-worthy, and we should never let our children indulge in screens or stray from a meticulously timed schedule.
All of this is to be accomplished on minimal sleep and with little to no downtime to recharge. And let’s not forget that bright, picture-perfect smile we’re meant to wear while posting our children’s milestones on social media.
So why do we continue to buy into this crazy narrative about what we should be doing? Why are we so hard on one another and our choices? Aren’t we all striving to be the best we can for our children?
The values I want to instill in my child are about support and encouragement, not competition. I want him to cheer for others and appreciate their successes, rather than feel threatened by them.
I’ve decided to set an example for him. While a little healthy competition can be fun, the world of motherhood has taken it to an extreme, and I’m officially waving the white flag. I’ve come to terms with the fact that I may never be the star baker at the school fundraiser or throw the ultimate birthday bash. I also won’t be able to fulfill every wish of my child’s heart, and you know what? That’s perfectly okay.
In the grand scheme of things, I might not fit the mold of the “perfect mom” in society’s eyes, but to my son, I’m his world. And that, my friends, is more than enough for me!
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In summary, accepting that “good enough” is truly sufficient can alleviate the pressures of motherhood. It allows us to focus on what really matters—being present and loving our children.