Blog 2: How to Kick Mom Guilt to the Curb and Embrace Imperfection.

A candid discussion on overcoming the pressure of perfectionism and practical ways to embrace the ups and downs of motherhood without guilt

Mom guilt—it’s that nagging voice that tells us we’re not doing enough, not good enough, or just flat-out failing. Whether it's from missing a school event or ordering takeout instead of cooking a homemade meal, mom guilt creeps in. But what if we stopped holding ourselves to impossible standards and embraced imperfection instead? Here's how you can start kicking that guilt to the curb.

1. Let Go of Perfectionism

The truth is, there’s no such thing as a perfect mom. Trying to live up to that ideal only leads to stress and burnout. Start by identifying what triggers your guilt. Are you constantly comparing yourself to other moms? Are you striving for Pinterest-worthy perfection? Challenge those thoughts and remind yourself that it’s okay to make mistakes—what matters is that you show up for your family with love and care.

2. Redefine "Enough"

Society’s version of a “good mom” often comes with a long list of unrealistic expectations. It’s time to rewrite those rules! Instead of focusing on what you didn’t do, celebrate what you did accomplish. You fed your kids today? You made them laugh? You’re doing enough! Shifting your mindset from "I’m not doing enough" to "I’m doing my best" is a powerful way to silence mom guilt.

3. Take Time for Self-Care

When you’re overwhelmed and exhausted, guilt tends to surface more easily. Regular self-care helps refill your cup so that you can give your best to your family without feeling drained. Whether it’s a walk, a hot shower, or reading a book, give yourself permission to take time for you without guilt. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup!

4. Set Realistic Expectations

We often put pressure on ourselves to meet unrealistic expectations—doing everything perfectly, every single day. But some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay! Set expectations that reflect your current season of life. With twin babies, two teens, and a preteen in my household, I know that some days I can only tackle the basics—and that’s perfectly fine.

5. Talk About It

Don’t bottle up your feelings. Share them with a trusted friend, your partner, or a fellow mom. Often, simply voicing your worries helps you gain perspective and realize you’re not alone in your struggles. Motherhood isn’t a competition, and sharing your experiences can help lift that weight of guilt off your shoulders.

Remember, being a mom is tough, and you're doing an amazing job. By letting go of perfectionism and embracing the ups and downs, you’ll free yourself from unnecessary guilt and learn to celebrate the wonderful (and sometimes messy) journey of motherhood.