Parenting advice is everywhere, especially online. From the moment your baby arrives, you’re bombarded with opinions from friends, family, and even complete strangers. 

The constant, and sometimes contradictory, advice can be overwhelming and make it pretty tough to figure out the best way to raise your kids, especially since there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.  

The truth is, you have to figure it out as you go, and mistakes are inevitable. But what if we told you that mistakes are actually good for both you and your kids?

Enter “imperfect parenting” (or “good enough parenting”). This approach normalizes mistakes and embraces imperfection. It’s all about adjusting your expectations and understanding that, although frustrating, setbacks can be valuable learning opportunities for everyone.

Mistakes are how humans learn and grow. Think about it: how can kids develop coping skills without challenges? Making mistakes and experiencing stress can help your child learn to be flexible, build resilience, and overcome life’s inevitable setbacks.

Steer clear of “lawnmower parenting,” which involves removing all obstacles for your child. Instead, let them experience the consequences of their choices and help them walk through the hard times, not avoid them. 

I love how Brené Brown puts it, "It's actually our ability to embrace imperfection that will help us teach our children to have the courage to be authentic, the compassion to love themselves and others, and the sense of connection that gives true purpose and meaning to life." Her audiobook, The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting: Raising Children with Courage, Compassion, and Connection, is a 2-hour guidebook to help you reach your full parenting potential, and it’s already in my cart. 

My 7-year-old got his perfectionism from his mama, so I try to point out my mistakes and laugh at myself (sometimes too much). We’re working on recognizing if our reactions match the situation. Helping him navigate his strong emotions has helped me notice when I overreact or get frustrated over minor things.

Adjusting your expectations can help you deal with those everyday parenting stressors. Mentally prepare for the possibility of a meltdown at the checkout line instead of expecting a leisurely shopping trip—this is the reality of parenting, and it’s not always shown in your social media highlight reel.

Imperfect parenting starts with self-compassion. Recognize that you, as a human, are not perfect, and you’re doing the best you can. If today was tough, you can always try again tomorrow. Notice when your inner critic enters the chat and shut it down—give yourself a little grace, okay? 

Have you started embracing imperfect parenting yet?

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