Parenting Unplugged: Embracing the Chaos and Joy
Welcome to Parenthood
Parenting is one of the most rewarding, complicated, and unpredictable roles we’ll ever step into. It’s beautiful—but it’s also messy, loud, exhausting, and, at times, deeply overwhelming.
There are days filled with laughter and love—and others where you’re just trying to make it through without pulling your hair out. And no matter how many books you read or how much advice you get, nothing truly prepares you for the real, raw experience.
So today, I want to talk about the good, the bad, and everything in between. Not filtered or sugar coating—just real life. I’ll share a few things that have helped me as a parent (not perfection, just what’s helped), along with some self-care practices that have kept me grounded. Because the truth is, parenting isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about learning as you go, giving yourself grace, and finding small moments of joy in the chaos.
The Unfiltered Reality
Let’s be honest. What we see online—or in movies—isn’t the full picture. The highlight reels of smiling kids, color-coordinated schedules, and parents who seem to have it all together can make us feel like we’re doing something wrong.
Because in real life, parenting often looks more like:
Messy rooms.
Running behind.
Negotiating bedtime like it’s a hostage situation.
Real parenting lies somewhere between the chaos of a toddler meltdown and the quiet beauty of a bedtime hug.
If your household looks anything like mine, you’ve probably found yourself in the thick of:
Constant decision-making: From what to feed them to how much screen time to allow, parenting is a never-ending stream of choices. And sometimes, even the smallest ones feel like they carry the weight of the world.
Guilt and second-guessing: I’ve often found myself asking, Did I yell too much today? Was I too lenient? Too strict? Did they feel seen?
That internal dialogue never really goes away—and it can wear you down if you're not careful.
Unexpected joy: Like the spontaneous moments when my kids all gather in my room just to hang out, and the conversation turns into laughter that makes your stomach hurt. Or when one of them does something kind—just because.
Beyond all of this, parenthood is the love that keeps you going.
Despite the exhaustion, the doubts, and the mess, the love you have for your child—deep, unconditional, and fierce—is what grounds you when everything else feels like it’s falling apart.
Don’t get me wrong—parenting is a rollercoaster, full of twists and turns.
One minute, you’re counting down the hours until bedtime… and the next, you’re staring at them, wondering how time flew by so fast.
What I’ve Learned Along the Way
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual—and even if it did, I’m pretty sure mine would’ve been missing pages. But here are a few lessons that have stayed with me through the years:
1. Every child is different—and so is every season.
I used to think what worked for one child would work for the next.
Spoiler alert: it didn’t.
I’ve had to learn to adapt, to stay open, and to accept that it’s okay to still be learning every single day. Because it’s through those experiences that I get to learn more about myself as a parent—and about my kids, as they continue to flourish and grow into adults.
2. When I feel overwhelmed, I give myself permission to pause.
There were times when they were younger that I needed someone else to step in so I could step away—even if just for a little while. I needed that moment to recharge, even if it was just sitting in silence.
These days, it looks more like an honest conversation.
Me saying, “Hey, I’m doing a lot right now and I need a moment to breathe. It doesn’t mean I love you any less—it means I love myself enough to pause so I can show up better.”
3. Perfection is a myth.
There is no such thing as a perfect parent.
I used to think I had to get everything “right,” but what I’ve learned is that presence matters far more than perfection.
Our kids don’t need us to be flawless—they just need us to show up.
4. The little things matter.
I grew up in a home where children were often expected to be seen, not heard. So I made it a point to do the opposite. I listened. I made sure my kids felt seen and heard. And those small moments of connection? They added up in big ways.
These lessons are just things I’ve uncovered, realized, and discovered as I’ve sat back and reflected on what it has felt like to parent over the years. Maybe some of them will resonate with you—or maybe your experience looks completely different.
Either way, I believe it’s always worth taking a moment to reflect. On how we’ve grown, what we’re still learning, and the moments—big or small—that continue to shape the way we show up as parents and as people.
The Importance of Self-Care (Yes, Even Now)
Parenting can take everything out of you—physically, emotionally, and mentally. That’s why self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity.
And no, I’m not just talking about bubble baths (though I’m not knocking them either).
Here’s what self-care can really look like:
Setting boundaries with your kids. It’s okay to say, “Not right now.” It’s okay to not be available 24/7. Teaching them to respect your space teaches them to respect others, too.
Taking breaks without guilt. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to recharge. You’re allowed to enjoy something that has nothing to do with parenting
Asking for help. Whether it’s from a partner, friend, or support group—leaning on others doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wise.
Having a daily ritual that’s just for you. Journaling, a quiet walk, five minutes of silence before everyone wakes up—whatever it is, make space for it.
Because when you take care of you, you show up stronger for them.
Final Thoughts: Give Yourself Grace
There is no such thing as a perfect parent. We’re all figuring it out as we go—learning, unlearning, making mistakes, and trying again.
So if today felt hard, if the house is a mess, if you raised your voice or forgot something important… you're not failing.
You’re just parenting. In real life.
Keep showing up. Keep loving them the best way you know how. And don’t forget to show that same love and patience to yourself.
✨ Journal Prompt
Before you close this page, take a moment to reflect on your own journey:
What has parenting taught you about yourself?
How have you grown, and what are you still learning?
Are there moments—big or small—that have shaped the way you show up for your children or for yourself?
