I’m a recovering perfectionist and I’m very afraid of failing. I’m ashamed to say that I’ve missed out on many things because I’ve been too afraid to simply try. Or because I may not do it perfectly so I didn’t bother at all.
I’m not proud of that fact.
I’ve neglected to write or sometimes even publish amazing blog post ideas because I haven’t figured out the “perfect” way to do it.
Sad, huh?
I’m trying to do better with that. I’ve been inspired by watching some of Crystal Paine’s Periscopes (you may know her from Money Saving Mom) where she talks about just going for it and not worrying about doing it perfectly. That it’s better to try and fail because at least you tried!
My heart’s calling is to encourage other women, especially moms. There’s very little that brings me as much joy as receiving an email from one of you dear readers telling me how one of my posts spoke to you. Or when I’m able to reach out to and help a friend or acquaintance. It brings joy to my heart!
I have long struggled with insecurities and a lack of confidence. The Lord is slowly working in my life and reminding me that I am His daughter and He has chosen me. It’s easy to say the words, but do I live my life as God’s daughter? I’m slowly beginning to believe that in my soul, but it’s a process to actually show that in my life.
As I think about what I’m meant to do, my heart keeps going back to my encouraging YOU.
It’s always been my goal to keep this site real. To be honest and upfront about the joys, but also the frustrations and inadequacies of motherhood. Especially in my own life. Because while we are all different, we have so much in common too.
But I’ve let Living Well Mom move away from that core perspective of “realness.” I’ve allowed myself to get caught up in “Pinterest perfect” images and writing catchy titles, instead of what’s on my heart.
In case you think otherwise, let me make it clear. My life is NOT “Pinterest Perfect.” Far from it. You may see a nice food photo or a nicely organized closet, but what you don’t see is the mess elsewhere in my home.
You don’t see my shower that I haven’t scrubbed in a month.
You don’t see the shavings scattered about my bedroom floor because my children have been carrying their new chicks all over and I’ve been too busy to vacuum.
You don’t see how I often don’t accomplish half of my to do list.
You don’t see how my 4 year old watches too much TV while I’m trying to maintain and grow LWM.
You don’t see that I often retake photos 3 times because they’re not “perfect.”
You don’t see the messy unfinished kitchen remodel that’s still not done after months. Or the unfinished living room walls.
Or the fact that I haven’t even used my easy microfiber cleaning trick for quite some time to clean my dirty couch.
You don’t see that I had my poor husband buy 6 sample paint colors (not the cards, but actual small paint jars) as I tried to figure out what color to paint my kitchen. And the fact that I’m still not sure the color I chose will look right. Because I have absolutely no eye for colors or home decorating whatsoever.
You don’t see that I bought materials to make this fun DIY corkboard jewelry organizer 3 months ago and I still haven’t made it because I haven’t a clue what to do.
There’s a lot you don’t see.
I want to share this photo with you. I just took it with my phone so it’s not very good or clear. This is my living room right now.
Luke is watching TV, the couch cushions are everywhere, there are toys, clothes, and blankets scattered about, the carpet is gross, and there is a gaping hole in the ceiling because my husband just finished installing new lighting.
This is the real me.
Hello, friends.
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