How do we know if we are doing a good job?

People always strive to be better and when it comes to parenthood, I always want to achieve more.

 

I'm no Pinterest mum and my house is certainly not a show home, but I’m happy with the who I am and I have given up trying to be something I’m not. I let the housework go and some days we just stay in and don't do anything – and that’s completely fine.

 

But while I think I’m doing OK, there’s no real way to be sure. Children don't turn round and say: “Well done, Mum, you're doing a great job this week.” I wish there was a way to know. Maybe I would stress less about having to fill the week with fun things and day trips.

 

Our weeks are not filled with DIY crafts and a picnic can sometimes mean a blanket on the floor in the front room. But while I’m not doing all the creative things I feel I have to, my boys smile and laugh every day, cuddles are endless and the “I love you, Mummy” as you shut the bedroom door melts away the day’s stress. 

 

I just make the most of what we have. As they get older I realise I don’t need to try to be a better parent. They have fun whatever we do and a picnic outside is just as fun as inside.

 

I’m doing a great job and so are you. 

 

 

Is trying to be a better parent just our inner competitive streak wanting to top what we did last week? My boys – and I'm sure your children – will not turn around at 13-years-old and say: “We didn't do much that one week in June when I was four.” 

 

I constantly worry at silly things like that, but looking back, no matter what I did as a child it was always fun!

 

There is no handbook to parenthood. As long as you know your child is happy you're being a great parent; in fact that’s probably the ultimate goal in parenthood!

 

So, go with the flow, worry less and enjoy every single second of it!

 

Leah Nicole is mum to two gorgeous toddling boys in Kent. She blogs at Leah And Two, breaking the stigma around young parents by sharing her experiences, the up and downs and stories of real-life motherhood.