We need to celebrate what we are doing right! We all have things we could work on. That’s what makes us human and it’s called life. It doesn’t mean we are stuffing everything up.
Maybe guilt can be used for the purpose of good if you let it. Therefore, it can remind and reassure you that your parenting is good enough. We are not striving for perfectionism. Kids do not want their parents to be perfect. How would they learn and grow if they are not shown how to? Children need to be able to learn from our mistakes, shown how to move on (forgiveness) and foster positive and happy relationships.
If you feel that guilt is having an effect on your mental health and your relationships, talk to someone about it. Sometimes talking to other mothers can level some of your fears and guilt. There are a lot of commonalities among parents and what they feel guilty about. You may need to visit your doctor or nurse and maybe have some counselling. As mothers, we want to be able to enjoy parenting and have some fun along the way. Most of all, don’t get bogged down by mummy guilt. It’s not worth it!
Fast forward to a week later and I have just had a two hour nap in the middle of the day on a weekend. The children are out with their father having some much needed daddy time and I am taking the time to recharge because it will benefit not only me but my whole family. Guilt…it’s not visiting my house today!
Fiona Chapman is a mum of two beautiful boys aged 1 and 4, who also has extensive experience as a midwife and Child and Family Health Nurse. She is passionate about inspiring and empowering parents on their parenting journey in today’s world by sharing her knowledge and experiences. You can find her on her website Passionate Parenting, or follow her on Facebook.
