Moms today are constantly managing high expectations. These expectations may come from outside the home but most often, they come from within. Many have heard the expression “You are your own worst critic” and no one can criticize like a mom deep in the infamous mom guilt or crumbling under self-doubt. Many of us grew up in homes with more than questionable parental figures and disciplinary models. What we take away from those experiences, along with what not to do, is an overwhelming feeling that we are failing as parents. This inevitably comes as we learn and implement what we feel is an appropriate response system for the little people that are in our care today. I feel that it is appropriate to call those in need today to allow yourself grace. Being a parent is far from easy and the fact that you’re questioning your capability of becoming better is a testament to the fact that you are caring enough to try. As I said before, we are learning as we go. Though many have tried to write them, kids simply do not come with an instruction manual. What works for one kid often doesn’t work for another and, when you feel like you’ve got it all figured out, you go into a new stage of development that requires entirely new management techniques. What you can do, however, is manage your mind. You can’t predict how your children will behave, what they will be interested in, or who they will become, but you can decide today that you will manage your emotions first so that you can best be there for them as they trek on this incredibly difficult journey that we call being a human. So, give yourself grace when you lose your shit and manage your emotions through this bumpy ride we are all taking. Though you may feel alone, I promise there are plenty of Mamas out there that feel like you feel at this very moment. Give yourself grace, breathe through the difficulties, and make sure you are not pouring from an empty cup.

If you feel like your brain has been rung dry and you need ideas on how to fill your cup, check out Filling Your Cup for an idea of where to get started.