As a mother, I often stumble along the way. I won’t pretend to be flawless. I lose my cool, raise my voice, and sometimes overwhelm my kids with too many options, thinking fairness is key. I let them indulge in junk food, binge on TV shows, and get lost in video games. Each summer, I struggle to keep them on a consistent bathing routine, and there are times when my family runs out of clean socks before I tackle the laundry. Dinner planning? Not my strong suit. I don’t enforce daily reading sessions, and I’m not a fan of board games or pretend play.
However, after 13 years of navigating motherhood, I’ve learned to breathe deeply, maintain my composure, and model positive behavior for my children. While I don’t enforce strict rules, I’ve found that too many choices can lead to chaos, especially for my clever little boy. I believe in balance, so my kids enjoy their treats and screen time, but we have guidelines to keep things in check. Our bathing schedule may be hit or miss, but I certainly wouldn’t let them head out looking disheveled, and I ensure they brush their teeth regularly.
Even though we occasionally run low on clean clothes, I make sure they have what they need. Laundry isn’t a huge task, and I can manage a load pretty quickly. Cooking isn’t my favorite activity, but I don’t let that stop us from having meals. I ensure that no one goes hungry, even if dinner plans are last-minute.
I encourage my kids to read but refrain from enforcing it, believing that pressure might diminish their love for books. They see me reading, which I hope inspires them. I might not love playing board games with them, but I engage in other activities, and as they grow older, I find the fun in it more appealing.
Due to my poor eyesight, I can’t always drive them to their desired activities, but I make arrangements for their dad or friends to step in when needed. Sometimes I feel guilty about this, yet I know they’ll be okay with a little temporary disappointment.
Yet, despite my imperfections, I am ENOUGH. I prioritize my kids’ needs over my own and am humble enough to acknowledge my mistakes and learn from them. I believe that this mindset sets a positive example for them. I genuinely enjoy their company—they are more than enough for me. I shower them with affection, stay engaged in their education, communicate with teachers, and assist with homework. I ensure they get enough rest, keep up with doctor appointments, and care for them when they’re unwell. I cherish our moments of laughter and embrace the tough conversations. I know them deeply, and my love for them is boundless; they are my heart, and I remind them of this daily.
Though I may not be a picture-perfect mom, I am a mom who is perfect ENOUGH.
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In summary, motherhood is a journey filled with imperfections, but it’s important to embrace being “perfect enough.” Prioritizing our children’s needs, learning from mistakes, and fostering love and support can pave the way for a successful parenting experience.