Imperfect Mom: The Myth of Supermom

The Myth of Supermom: Why Perfection Isn’t Possible

The imperfect mom in me tried very hard to be Super Woman. For a while, I almost believed I was.

I mean, people expect so much of you. We expect so much of ourselves.

When I became a wife I wanted to do it all perfectly. My house would be clean and my husband would celebrate the day he lucked out with such a perfectly accommodating mate.

Hmmm.

When I became a mom I worked so hard to do it perfectly.

My kids would be always well-behaved, and if I worked hard enough, they would grow into beautiful adults who contribute to everyone and everything around them.

Even more than that perfect mom and wife, I wanted to be Super Woman. In all areas.

I tried. I failed.

We Keep Showing Up: Real Supermom Moments

Perfectionism has no place in real family life. We work harder and harder, and one day we fall off the wheel in a slump. Injured. Our dream crushed.

Being a mother is about learning about strengths you didn’t know you had and dealing with fears you didn’t know existed — Linda Wooten

Living in an effort to do it all in our own power isn’t sustainable. I gave up and after much soul searching, realized being Super Woman isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

Yes, I did “it” for a time. At a price.

When I couldn’t be super, there was no gray area. Super/Failure seemed to be the only options.

Friends, give it up.

We are super moms because we keep showing up

We are people who live and breathe and laugh and yes, make messes.

Not to say I don’t have some Super Woman qualities, they just might not have made super hero status yet.

I am Super Sensory: I mean SUPER, my sniffer can detect any unapproved smell for miles. One of my less appreciated traits in the family.

I am Super Mom: Not a perfect mother, and no one expects it. But ask my kids… they think I am pretty super. Quirky, fun, super. I’ll take it. And even with imperfect parenting, they are still growing into beautiful adults that care about others. Check!

I am Super Wife: I gave up ironing his shirts (sorry Grandma), I always forget he would appreciate a lunch, but he knows I have his back. Always. And I pick up before he comes home, never requested but always appreciated. It’s a good balance.

Not Super Everything: Giving Yourself Grace

Not supermom qualities you probably possess:

I am NOT Super Everything To Everybody: I used to try very hard. I gave it up and now give what I can. That is enough.

I am NOT Super Able: What I often can be is super sick. It is a challenge living with chronic illness. You know what? My family had become Super Supportive. Incredible trade-off.

I am NOT Super Housekeeper: Though I do work, along with lots of help from my teens, to keep it tidy…it isn’t a museum.

How about you, do you think Super and Perfect are equitable?

Today I ask you to reevaluate your life. Choose what really matters and do that…

None of us can be Super Everything. Just be Super You.

Encouragement for imperfect moms often comes in small everyday moments of grace.

If this resonated with you, you might love my free devotional, Grace for the Stuck: A 7-Day Invitation to Slow Down and Breathe.

It’s a simple, grace-filled guide to help you slow down, rest, and remember that even in the blur of ordinary days, your life holds deep meaning.

You can grab it free here.