Leaning into the discomfort of imperfection.

MENTAL HEALTH | PUBLISHED: 01 MAY 2024 | 3 MINUTE READ

Written By: Cindy Christian

During a conversation with a fellow working mama, we reflected on how easy it is to spiral down the rabbit hole of perfectionism.

Working mothers often juggle demanding jobs, run households, and many other daily challenges.

One of the consequences of constantly edging for perfectionism is burnout. Many working moms often find themselves feeling chronically fatigued, irritable, physically and mentally drained, and spiralling out of control (amongst others!). As a working mom, you may find ticking mental to-do lists, trying to show up for your family, your job, and everything else. 

I vividly remember the first few months of being a new working mom. Trying to adjust to working full-time, being a new mom to my beautiful baby girl, and figuring everything out for the first time was extremely challenging. It can be a lonely journey paved with confusion and disillusionment. But what helped me survive that season of my life was unlearning.

That experience taught me to LET IT GO, trust my gut, and show up at my best with all my imperfections. I quickly realised that everything I thought I had to do did not matter. Showing up for my baby girl and being present on the journey was more important than anything else. 

Leaning into the discomfort of imperfection can be very liberating. Trying to be perfect can stress you out, make you feel not good enough, and sad when you're trying to connect with others. It feels great to stop trying to be perfect. Knowing you're strong and capable of handling any challenge is a big step towards success.

The next time you catch yourself heading down the path of perfectionism, pause, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you're meant for your unique journey!

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I am Cindy Christian, a mom to a beautiful 3-year-old girl, wife, mental health professional (HPCSA: Registered Counsellor and Research Psychologist), and PhD candidate. I've spent the last decade working in public and private higher education in South Africa and private counselling practice. I am passionate about community mental health, psychology education, research, and counselling. I enjoy accompanying people on their journeys through difficult obstacles to regain mental wellness. As a mom, wife, and working professional, I constantly strive to find balance in everything I do (which is no easy task!). Being mindful and making conscious decisions to review habits that serve me and those that don't help me achieve my goals. I am proud to be a working mama!