As the New Year rolls in, we find ourselves amidst the celebratory chaos—countdowns, gatherings, and the pressure of fresh resolutions. While I’m still recovering from the indulgences of the holiday season, it’s the myriad of resolutions that truly tires me. The expectation to improve, to change, to achieve—it’s all just another layer of unrealistic demands that often lead to guilt when inevitably unmet.
As a doctor, I’ve seen firsthand how parenting can be a guilt-ridden experience. So this year, I’m flipping the script by creating a list of things I refuse to stress over—my personal anti-resolutions. After all, if we don’t prioritize where our energy goes, we risk running out of it altogether.
Here are 25 things I won’t worry about in the coming year:
- My children wearing shorts in the dead of winter.
- The judgmental looks from strangers who believe my kids will catch a cold.
- My son’s diet consisting solely of sugary cereals and fruit for days on end.
- Fashion fads. My current aesthetic is best described as comfy and casual.
- How others choose to nourish their children. Whether it’s breastfeeding in public or quick snacks, that’s their choice.
- The nonsense that often fills my social media feeds. I’ll make ample use of the “unfollow” button.
- Celebrity news about parenthood. I have zero interest in whether someone bounced back quickly after childbirth.
- My kids binging on TV shows for hours. Sometimes, a good marathon is just what we need.
- What gifts other kids received for the holidays.
- What my kids didn’t get compared to their peers.
- The occasional misbehavior of kids—they’re just kids figuring things out.
- The actions of parents who might come off as rude; we all have tough days.
- Certain holidays that don’t resonate with my family; glitter trails and goodie bags can be skipped.
- Raising my voice—some days, it just happens.
- My son rocking the same superhero shirt multiple days in a row.
- Using colorful language in front of my kids—there are worse things, right?
- My older child teaching the younger one how to spell less-than-appropriate words.
- My forehead wrinkles, which my kids find amusing.
- The amount of coffee I consume; some days are just about getting through.
- Letting my kids see me emotional; parents are human too.
- Crafting a flawless childhood for my children; it’s the imperfections that often make it special.
- Politely declining the PTA invite. No thanks!
- Choosing to stay in with my favorite shows instead of a moms’ night out.
- Whether my kids excel in sports or academics; being kind humans is my priority.
- The societal pressure to be the ideal parent, partner, or friend. This year, I’m embracing the mantra: just be yourself.
For further insights into parenting and home insemination, check out this link and explore this authoritative site on fertility journeys. You can also find an excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination at Science Daily.
In summary, this year is about prioritizing what truly matters—embracing authenticity and letting go of the needless stressors.