Parenting Insights
I wouldn’t call myself lazy, yet some days, my environment suggests otherwise. Let me elaborate.
Take a look at those picture frames over there. We moved into our house nearly five years ago, and I unpacked those photographs, leaving them temporarily in the corner of my bedroom. I planned to hang them up once I found a moment to do so. That photo was taken yesterday, and somehow, those frames have been collecting dust for five years. Each time I spot them, I think, “I should hang them,” or “I should donate them,” or “I should update the images.” Yet, here I am, stuck in a cycle of indecision.
My overflowing notebook is filled with mouthwatering recipes I’ve ripped from magazines, fueled by good intentions. Still, I find myself preparing the same meals for my family week after week.
I sorted through my clothing and packed items to donate. They’ve been stowed away in the trunk of my car for two months, causing me frustration every time I take a sharp turn.
My desk is cluttered with piles of paperwork, reminders of tasks waiting to be completed: transfer the wedding video to DVD before it deteriorates, call the insurance company regarding a medical claim, use that movie pass before it expires, shred old bills to make room for new ones, schedule the orthodontist appointment, and purchase that birthday gift.
I’m not unique. This is the reality for many moms. With a family of five, I often find that I can only tackle the essentials: grocery shopping, feeding the kids, taking the dog to the vet, doing laundry, and paying the bills.
All those “want-to” tasks? They linger, reminding me of my perceived shortcomings. I navigate through my home, seeing the frames, the recipes, and the paper piles, and I can’t shake the feeling that I’m falling short. I’m not “getting it all done.”
But here’s what I’m starting to understand—or rather, what I need to embrace: moms aren’t machines. We can’t keep pushing ourselves without pause; otherwise, we’ll break. And there’s no backup if we do.
Sure, I might want to hang those frames or shred those bills tonight after the essentials are taken care of. But honestly, what I really need is to sink into the couch, cuddle with my beloved dog, and binge-watch some Netflix.
I must also shift the narrative in my mind to recognize that this doesn’t reflect laziness; it signifies my humanity.
To all the parents out there, like me, who collapse into bed each night feeling like they haven’t done enough, remember this: You are the wheels that keep the family train moving. You’re the engine that drives it and the conductor that directs it. You are incredible. And I bet that today, you did enough.
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If you’re looking for more insights, visit Modern Family Blog for expert advice on parenting.