Let’s talk about family dinners—the reality, not the Instagram version. Some nights, your kids might be eating a quick bowl of beans and sausages with a side of snacks, and guess what? That’s absolutely okay.
For a long time, I pressured myself to cook a "proper meal" every night. But what does "proper" even mean? Is it a roast dinner everyone eats without complaint? (Spoiler: that never happens.) Or is it simply putting something on the table that fills their tummies and keeps the peace?
The Reality of Family Mealtimes
On those “snack nights,” I’ve noticed the food often gets devoured with requests for seconds. But when I spend extra time preparing a home-cooked meal, someone inevitably leaves something untouched. One child doesn’t like potatoes; the other won’t touch chicken. The expectations I placed on myself weren’t helping anyone—least of all me.
Lowering Expectations: A Game Changer
I’ve started embracing the idea of “good enough.” No one at the table was demanding I meet some elusive ideal—it was all in my head. Once I gave myself permission to simplify, I felt less stressed, and our family mealtimes became much more enjoyable.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
Good Enough is Still Great:
A quick meal that everyone eats without complaint can be just as satisfying as a fancy dinner.
Simplifying Brings Peace:
Less pressure on me means fewer arguments about what the kids will or won’t eat.
Letting Go of the Ideal:
I’ve stopped chasing perfection in mealtimes and started focusing on what works for us in the moment.
Finding Your 'Good Enough'
Simplifying isn’t just about food—it’s about life. Lowering expectations in one area can have a ripple effect, giving you permission to let go of unnecessary stress and focus on what really matters.
Imagine how your evenings would feel if you:
Stopped worrying about meeting unrealistic standards.
Focused on what works for your family, not what you think you should do.
Embraced the idea that “good enough” can be the best thing for everyone.
Your Turn
What are your go-to, no-pressure meals that your family loves? How have you eased the pressure on yourself in other areas of life? Share your tips and let’s build a community of parents who are embracing “good enough” and finding peace in the process.
Why Coaching Can Help
Feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to meet unrealistic standards? Coaching can help you let go of the “shoulds,” embrace your unique family dynamic, and create more balance in your day-to-day life.
Comments