Let go of perfectionism in parenting from "summary" of Beautiful Babies by Kristen Michaelis
Parenting is a journey filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected surprises at every corner. It's a rollercoaster ride that can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of ourselves. We constantly strive to be the perfect parent, to do everything right, and to raise our children in the best way possible. But what if I told you that perfectionism in parenting is not only unattainable but also detrimental to both you and your child?When we hold ourselves to impossible standards of perfection, we set ourselves up for failure. We become hyper-focused on getting everything right, on following all the rules, and on making sure our children are always happy and healthy. But the truth is, perfection is an illusion. It's a mirage that promises fulfillment but only leads to disappointment and self-doubt. Instead of striving for perfection, we need to embrace imperfection. We need to accept that we will make mistakes, that we will fall short, and that we are not perfect beings.
Letting go of perfectionism in parenting means giving ourselves permission to be human. It means acknowledging our flaws, our limitations, and our weaknesses. It means forgiving ourselves when we mess up, when we lose our temper, or when we make a wrong decision. It means understanding that it's okay to be imperfect, that it's okay to be flawed, and that it's okay to make mistakes. In fact, it's more than okay – it's necessary.
When we let go of perfectionism in parenting, we free ourselves from the shackles of self-doubt and guilt. We allow ourselves to be imperfect, to be vulnerable, and to be real. We give ourselves the space to learn and grow, to evolve and change, and to become the best parents we can be. Because the truth is, our children don't need perfect parents. They need loving, caring, and compassionate parents who are willing to show up, to be present, and to do their best. And sometimes, that's all we can ask for.
