You’re Doing Better Than You Think: Why Showing Up Matters
Why write this Post?
Last week, I walked into the kitchen and saw last night’s dishes still in the sink, laundry waiting to be folded, and a grocery list that was… well… not even started.
Before my coffee, I was already thinking: I’m falling behind again.
But then, I heard little footsteps padding down the hall. Squish looked up at me with a sleepy smile and said, “Morning, Mama.”
And in that moment, I realized something:
He didn’t care about the dishes. He didn’t care about the laundry.
He cared that I was there.
That I smiled back.
That I hugged him.
That I asked, “How’d you sleep?”
We measure ourselves by what’s left undone. Our kids measure us by the moments we show up.
And you, my friend, are probably doing so much better than you think.
5 Easy Steps to Show Up (Even When You’re Tired)
The beauty of “showing up” is that it’s not about doing everything. It’s about being present for the things that matter most. Here’s how:
1. Start with One Intentional Moment
Why it matters: Kids remember little rituals—like a morning hug, a silly handshake, or a bedtime story.
What to do: Pick one time of day you can give your full attention, even for 2 minutes.
2. Choose Connection Over Perfection
Why it matters: Your presence matters more than a spotless home. Kids thrive on feeling seen, not on sparkling countertops.
What to do: Let something small slide if it means saying “yes” to a game, a walk, or a quick chat.
3. Celebrate the Tiny Wins
Why it matters: You’re teaching your kids to notice and value progress, not perfection.
What to do: Out loud, say, “I’m glad we had a few minutes together” or “That was fun!”
4. Protect a Small Pocket of Time
Why it matters: Life gets busy, but even a 10-minute window—protected from screens, chores, and work—tells your child they matter.
What to do: Schedule it like an appointment. Guard it like a treasure.
5. Offer Grace (to Yourself and Your Kids)
Why it matters: When you model self-compassion, you show your kids it’s okay to be human.
What to do: If today wasn’t great, say, “Tomorrow is a fresh start for both of us.”
Loving Message to Squish
Dear Squish,
One day, you’ll be grown, and you won’t remember every meal we made or every load of laundry we did. But I hope you’ll remember that we were there—really there.
I hope you’ll remember that being “enough” has nothing to do with doing everything.
And I hope you’ll carry that lesson into your own life:
That showing up for the people you love is what matters most.
Love Always,
Mom and Dad
Helpful Things from Amazon
Affiliate Disclaimer: This post uses affiliate links and we may make money if you click on a link and purchase—at no extra cost to you. Every product here is something we use in our own home and truly believe in.
Morning Routine Cards for Kids – Makes those first moments of the day smoother and more intentional.
Family Conversation Card Deck – Sparks meaningful chats, even on short drives.
Compact Picnic Blanket – Perfect for spontaneous backyard or park time.
Cozy Throw Blanket – For snuggles, stories, or movie nights.
Gratitude Journal for Busy Parents – A quick daily reminder that small moments matter.
Final Thoughts
You’re already showing up more than you realize.
Today, give yourself permission to count the moments that matter—not just the tasks you check off.
Your kids don’t need a perfect you.
They just need you.
So, take a deep breath, pick one small way to connect today, and trust that it’s enough
