Let me start with this: it’s all right. Truly. Whatever you’re doing right now — parenting your way, making choices that feel best for your family, or simply getting through the day — you’re doing it right. It doesn’t matter how your friend does it, how your neighbour swears by their method, or how your friend’s mum raised five perfect children. You are doing it your way, and as long as it’s from a place of love and caring, that’s enough.
I’ve lost count of the times I’ve questioned my choices or doubted my abilities as a mother. And guess what? That’s okay. The fact that you’ve even had that thought — that pause of self-doubt — is a sign. A sign that you care deeply. That you’re present. That you want to get it right. And that already makes you a good parent.
Now here’s the wild part: our children? Their job is to be children. Which often means making us feel like we’re the worst human alive. The “meanest” parent. The “unfair” one. They want what they want, when they want it, and without a care in the world about how it affects you. That’s part of the deal.
The hardest part? Is being the “bad guy” and still staying close. It’s a delicate balance — one we often get wrong before we start getting it right. Sometimes we’re too close. Other times, not close enough. It’s a minefield.
But here’s the thing — I’m hopeful, and stubborn, and determined to keep walking that line. And so are you. We’ll figure it out, step by step. You’re not alone, and you’re not failing.
You’re doing just fine. More than fine, actually. So why does it feel so bad? if it didn’t feel bad, that’s when you should be concerned. The best things in life seem to cause us the most pain and the best rewards( remember labour).
(2nd Feb 20)
Real Talk: Diary of a Seriously Fcked Off Parent 