We Do Not See Things as They Are...
Let’s face it—parenting is all about perspective. One moment, you’re a zen guru patiently explaining why it’s bedtime, and the next, you’re Googling “how to remove slime from carpet” at 2 am. The thing is, we see situations not for what they are but through the lens of our own feelings. Overwhelmed? Suddenly, every toy on the floor feels like a personal attack. Calm? That same mess is just “creative play.”

So, next time the chaos feels like too much, take a breath, grab a cuppa, and remind yourself: it’s not the situation—it’s the way you’re seeing it. Change the lens, and the picture looks brighter.

It’s Okay to Live a Life Most Don’t Understand
Let’s normalise this, shall we? Maybe your kid wears odd socks because matching pairs are a luxury you can’t prioritise. Maybe your idea of “meal prep” is chucking frozen chips in the air fryer. Guess what? That’s okay. Life doesn’t come with a parent-of-the-year checklist.

The next time someone raises an eyebrow at your choices, remember this: they don’t have to understand your life. As long as your kids are happy, loved, and fed (even if it’s fish fingers for the third time this week), you’re doing just fine.

Ambition Without Action Becomes Anxiety
Hands up if you’ve got a list of “things I’ll do when the kids are older.” Now hands up if that list keeps growing but never gets shorter. It’s easy to feel ambitious but stuck when nappies, school runs, and homework dominate your day.

The trick? Start small. Write a sentence for that book you’ve always wanted to write. Take a ten-minute walk towards your fitness goal. Ambition without action turns into stress, but small steps lead to progress.

Saying “No” Is a Superpower
Here’s your reminder: “No” is a full sentence. You don’t need to add, “because I’m busy” or “because I’m tired.” Whether it’s turning down PTA bake sales or skipping the third birthday party this month, protecting your energy isn’t selfish—it’s smart.

Fear Doesn’t Stop Death; It Stops Life
Parenting is full of worry. Is my child eating enough vegetables? Are they too much on the tablet? Will they remember this one time I shouted about the cereal on the floor? But here’s the thing: fear robs us of joy.

Take a deep breath and let some of those worries go. Your child won’t remember every detail—but they will remember the hugs, the laughter, and the time you let them eat ice cream for breakfast just once.

You Can Do Anything, But Not Everything
It’s tempting to try and do it all. Homemade birthday cakes, spotless houses, reading all the parenting books… But let’s get real. Nobody’s doing everything—and the people who look like they are? They’ve got help (or a cleaner).

Focus on what truly matters to you. Maybe it’s family movie nights or making it to the school play. Whatever it is, let go of the rest and give yourself a break.

People Only See the Decisions You Made
Finally, remember this: people don’t see the full story. They don’t know the sleepless nights, the sacrifices, or the moments you’ve doubted yourself. They see the decisions, not the choices you had. So, own your story—it’s yours to tell, not theirs to judge.

Final Thoughts
Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, loving your kids, and doing your best. So next time you’re doubting yourself, pour a cup of tea, remind yourself of what really matters, and know that you’re enough.

Now, go on—give yourself a pat on the back (or five minutes with a biscuit in the cupboard). You deserve it.