Navigating motherhood can feel like walking a tightrope between expectations and reality. And when we strive for perfectionism in our careers, and as mothers, it is so easy to feel stuck. It doesn’t long before burnout, overwhelm, and thoughts of being “not enough” can start to creep in. 

If you can relate, you’re certainly not alone. These emotions are all too familiar to many moms. But, it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right strategies, it's possible to break free from the grasp of perfectionism and embrace a more balanced and fulfilling approach to parenting. 

Here are three tips for overcoming perfectionism in motherhood:

1. Find your people. 

“It takes a village,” they say. Well, that village might be your partner, a supportive friend, or your next-door neighbor — it’s not always a family member that lives nearby. Reach out to someone who can relate to your experiences and don’t hesitate to ask them for help. By sharing the workload and responsibilities, you can alleviate some of the pressure and create space for self-care and personal fulfilment.

2. Set realistic expectations. 

For starters, perfection is unattainable and control is a myth. Set loose goals and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Making mistakes is all part of the learning process, after all. Now’s the time to prioritise tasks based on what truly matters to you and your family.

3. Remember who YOU are. 

Motherhood is an identity, career is an identity, but who are you at your essence? How you show up as your authentic self in both your career and your role as a mother matters more than just your performance in these roles. And instead of dwelling on perceived shortcomings, practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing similar struggles. Remember, you're doing the best you can with the resources and knowledge you have.

If you’re a recovering perfectionist, I’d love to know if you have anything to add to this list.