With the New Year upon us, the pressure to improve ourselves as a human and especially as a mom is constantly in our faces. However, I need to be honest and say that I am done trying to be perfect- I am allowing myself to be a B+ mom this year. Putting that kind of pressure on myself makes the start of the year unenjoyable. 

You’ve Done Enough 

I am a perfectionist. It’s a love/hate relationship. My perfectionism drives my anxiety and depression. If I don’t keep everything just right, I slip into a dark hole. Yet, if I keep everything perfect, my mind races to the next thing that could go wrong. When it comes down to it, I am doing more than enough for my kids and my husband. Even on the days that I feel like I am barely doing anything or I am simply hanging by a thread- I have done everything for my family. 

Priorities 

This year I have really tried to refocus my priorities. I have put limits on my social media, challenged myself to read 40 books, be present with my kids and husband, and create stronger relationships with friends. That is a lot to do on its own. So to add all the new year resolutions to the mix just sends me through the roof. 

What I am doing:

1. Freezer Meals: Take a Saturday and put together 18-20 freezer meals so you can enjoy your time when you get home and just warm up some sides. 
2. Find time for you: Tell your spouse you are going to take a bath, read, or go to the gym with a friend. We need that time to recharge too. 
3. Limit screen time: Set limits on your phone and try your best to stick with them. Be present with your family and friends. 
4. Play: Just get on the floor and play with your kids, do puzzles and board games. Quality time with them doesn’t have to be a big deal. Just giving your attention to the task at hand or game without screens as a distraction is a gift enough. 
5. Cleaning: I clean one big item in the house a day. Then wipe off counters and clear the sink each night. It’s a lot less stressful than trying to clean the whole house in one day with kids around. 

Being B+ is Enough

Does it have to be all of this? No. These are just some ways that I am working on being a B+ mom and wife. Am I perfect at sticking to this list or daily cleaning? Absolutely not. I try, however, when my kids are in need of mom time or my husband wants to talk about his day- I let it go. And guess what? The world doesn’t end. 

So, give yourself permission this year season to be a B+ mom and wife. Regardless of how much or how little you do, they are going to think the world of you regardless. 

_{The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily represent those of The We Spot, its employees, sponsors, or affiliates.}