This. This is the way I handle a parenting decision.
There are very few issues I can actually say that about, with any sort of authority. Because it all depends on the situation.
I see so many shades of gray.
It seems like almost every parenting choice has me walking a fine line between two different approaches. Leaning this way sometimes and that way the next, overcorrecting if I feel I’ve overstepped. It’s a balancing act and it feels like I’m always on the verge of falling.
I wonder which type of mom I should be, if I’m making the right decisions in my parenting.
It’s being proud of my child for doing his best…. and wanting to push him to do even better, because maybe that wasn’t really his best… but if it was, I don’t want him to feel like he’s not good enough.
It’s encouraging my child to try something new… and trying to prepare him for the failure that might come… while still staying positive and not dismissing his dreams.
It’s not wanting my child to be overscheduled… but wanting him to be able to do the activities that he wants to do… but wanting my child to have downtime.
It’s wanting my child to be who he is… and worrying that those choices could cause him to get hurt… but knowing that it’s better to let him be who he is… but still not wanting him to have his feelings crushed.
It’s letting my child do things on his own… but wanting to help… but wanting him to know he’s capable… but still wanting to be there if he falls.
I feel like I’m constantly walking that fine line with these choices and many others. And just when I think I’ve found that balance, something changes and I have to readjust my approach.