Gimme a Break
Lately, this commercial has been running through my mind. Do you remember it?
I could just say that I’ve been eating too much too late at night–maybe too much chocolate. But I know all too well that God uses the simple things to remind me of His love for me.
You see, lately I’ve been too hard on myself. I’m entering a new season in my life–motherhood, and I’m feeling a little ill-prepared.
- Inexperienced.
- Inadequate.
- Unqualified.
I haven’t struggled with my perfectionism in awhile, and these feelings have actually taken me by surprise. Old issue–new circumstances.
The first week was really a struggle for me. I beat myself up for forgetting hand wipes, for not bringing snacks and water on long car rides, you name it. All seemingly minor details blown up in the “shoulds” of my mind. I should be able to … I should know how to …
Then I remembered the Kit Kat commercial, especially the part that goes, “Break me off a piece of that Kit-Kat bar!” (You know the tune.)
I had to step back and take an objective look at my situation: I am a new mom. I have gone from zero children to five adoptive children–three of which are already in my home. This is uncharted territory for me–definitely a step of faith. If anything, I shouldn’t know how to do these things–I have never traveled this road before.
This is an opportune time for my perfectionism and unrealistic expectations to rent space in my head.
But I’m not letting them. I’m giving myself a break.
God will never let me be pushed past my limit, and He will always be here to help me come through the ups and downs of whatever situation I face (1 Corinthians 10:13). I refuse to discount the small steps I am taking. Instead, I rejoice with God every time I take a step in the right direction (Zechariah 4:10). Even more, I treasure the little rewards along the way:
- Hugs and kisses from my children.
- The way they call me “mommy princess.”
- Their prayers thanking God for this family.
It won’t be easy, but I can do it (Philippians 4:13)! God is cheering me on. He is on my side (Romans 8:31).
Gimme a break, gimme a break, break me off a piece of God’s grace and love.
Come alongside… How about you? In what areas of your life do you have unrealistic expectations? How can you give yourself a break?
New Articles Published… “Accepting My Pesky Imperfections” and “5 Practical Ways to Let Go of Perfectionism”
Earlier this month, Mentoring Moments for Christian Women published one of my recent blog posts in their Thanksgiving edition.
Today, I am honored that Mentoring Moments has published another two of my articles: “Accepting My Pesky Imperfections” and “5 Practical Ways to Let Go of Perfectionism”. I hope you will read both articles and comment. Share them with your friends this Thanksgiving season! God alone is perfect!
Here is a little more about Mentoring Moments–from their website:
Mentoring Moments for Christian Women was founded in 2005 as an email newsletter and recorded conference calls service to mentor and inspire women. Now, almost five years later, MMCW has established an online presence of providing quality articles and podcasts to encourage women free of charge.
Growing from just 486 subscribers our first month in 2005 to reaching thousands world-wide in 2009, MMCW’s goal is to bring glory to God through our service.
MMCW is comprised of an all volunteer staff of women from every walk of life, age, and background. Giving of their time and talent, these women work tirelessly to encourage women to experience a life of freedom in Christ.
Mission Statement
Mentoring Moments for Christian Women is an evangelical Christian site providing encouragement, mentoring, and practical tips for women in their everyday walk with the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Come alongside… Are you a perfectionist? How can you let go of your perfectionism? How can you share hope with others?
Big hugs,
Daphne
