A Viral Article Prompted Me to Create My Own ‘I Don’t’ List

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In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves grappling with the unrealistic expectations often associated with being a parent. The concept of “Supermom Syndrome” – while it may carry some outdated connotations – resonates widely. It highlights how mothers frequently attempt to juggle endless responsibilities, leaving them feeling utterly drained. Society often imposes the idea that we must excel at everything, which can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, a growing number of people are rejecting these outdated notions of perfectionism. While the pursuit of self-improvement is commendable, it often manifests through unrealistic standards. We tend to pile on goals without acknowledging that achieving them may require sacrificing other important aspects of our lives. It’s crucial to establish boundaries and say “no” to the things that don’t truly matter to us, allowing us to say “yes” to what does.

As the new year approaches, many individuals are buzzing with ambitious plans—like committing to daily meditation, training for marathons, or preparing healthy meals every night. However, let’s be real: for most of us, these resolutions may not come to fruition.

Inspired by a recent article by Laura Bennett on Mamablog, I’ve decided to compile my own “I Don’t” list. Bennett emphasizes that everyone has unique priorities, and what may not be important for one person might be essential for another. This list is not about judgment; it’s about finding balance in our own lives.

Here’s what my “I Don’t” list looks like:

1. I don’t achieve eight hours of sleep on a regular basis.
2. I don’t plan meals for the week.
3. I don’t prepare home-cooked dinners every night.
4. I don’t consistently apply face creams. (Most nights, I skip washing my face entirely – yikes!)
5. I don’t remember to floss every evening.
6. I don’t practice meditation.
7. I don’t engage in stretching or yoga.
8. I don’t oversee my children’s homework.
9. I don’t volunteer at school functions.
10. I don’t engage in Facebook groups.
11. I don’t maintain a balanced diet. (I am a carb-loving vegetarian!)
12. I don’t network extensively.
13. I don’t do crafts with my kids.
14. I don’t remember birthdays until it’s too late.

This “I Don’t” list could easily be contrasted with an “I Do” list, showcasing the myriad of things I manage to engage in thanks to not being bogged down by the items on my “I Don’t” list. However, the focus here isn’t on what we’re accomplishing; instead, it’s about giving ourselves permission to step back from the things that overwhelm us.

So this year, consider setting aside traditional New Year’s resolutions in favor of your own “I Don’t” list. Embrace it, celebrate it, and resist the urge to feel guilty for not doing it all.

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In conclusion, acknowledging what we don’t do can be as empowering as recognizing what we do. It allows us to refocus our energy on what truly matters to us and our families.