I stink at crafty things.
One day, my (then) 5 year old saw a drawing on our chalkboard and in her usual, knowing, motherly tone, she said, “Oh mama! Look at that cute drawing Bubba (her two year old brother) made!”
Hesitantly, I offered, “Um, Bubba didn’t draw that…I did…”
Earlier that day, I’d conceded to his incessant requests that I draw Lightning McQueen.
Acknowledging the blow to my creative ego, she replied, “Oh…welll ….it’s …..good….mama….”
Yet true to the brutal honesty that inhabits all 5 year olds she added, “…..but what *IS* it?”
Like I said I stink at crafty things.
Know Your Strengths
I have come to learn what I’m good at and what I’m not good at. And I have decided that instead of wearing myself out trying to be good at everything, I will choose to focus on my strengths and do my best to be excellent at a few things.
What I Do With My Kids
So I write with my kids. I run with them. I teach them to play tennis and songs on the guitar. We geocache and hike and go on spontaneous day trips.
All the things I naturally like to do, I teach them and do with them.
What I Don’t Do With My Kids
I only occasionally cook or craft WITH them (I’m good at neither and tend to micromanage). Instead, I give them supplies, direction when asked and watch while they create on their own.
When I was a new mom, I forced myself to cook and do crafts with them because I thought that’s what “good moms” do, but it rarely went well. My task oriented-ness was a liability.
So, now I teach them the basics and then guide them to books and lessons so that others who excel in those areas can teach them what I cannot.
What Are You Good At?
It is vital that we as moms know what we are good at and enjoy. Don’t feel pressured to be good at something just because other moms are or because someone says you “should.”
Pursue excellence in the things God has gifted you in or called you to.
2 Minute Challenge
I have a challenge for you. I don’t want this to be one of those blog posts you read and then forget about. This is a really important concept to help free us from comparison and the misconception that we need to be SuperMom.
I challenge you to take 2 minutes right now and consider these two questions. Share your 3 likes and dislikes in the comments and any ideas you have on how to incorporate your kids or outsource your dislikes.
Answer These Questions
1. What are 3 things you LOVE to do?
Brainstorm ways you can incorporate them into those activities.
2. What are 3 things you do NOT enjoy?
Outsource it. Delegate it. Minimize it. Or just stop it.
Note: Because this concept could easily be taken the wrong way, I’ve posted in the comments a few clarifications, qualifications and explanations why this is not your “get our of jail free card” to never mop your house.