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Parent's Corner: Stop Comparing – You’re Doing Better Than You Think!
- Jacqui Grant
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Connect & Grow Magazine: Issue 20 May 2025
Did you know that when you, yes you, walk into a room, your child’s behaviour statistically declines by 800 percent? Yep. Teachers, coaches, and other parents all marvel at how well-behaved they are Let’s be real — parenting is one giant experiment most of the time. We’re all out here doing our best, with equal parts love, hope, and please just eat your vegetables.
But it’s easy to fall into the trap of looking around and thinking, “Wow, they’re nailing it… and I’m over here Googling ‘how to get slime out of carpet.’”
Here’s the thing: Comparison is the thief of joy. (Thanks, Teddy Roosevelt, for nailing it way back when.)
The truth is, there’s no gold medal for who parents “better.” Your family is your family. Your kids need you, not some picture-perfect version you think you’re supposed to be. Take pride in the way you’ve chosen to raise your kids. Whether you’re a routine queen, a go-with-the-flow kind of parent, or somewhere in between – own it. No one else knows your children like you do.
But here’s where the magic happens: be proud of your way and stay open.
If you see another parent doing something brilliant – like staying cool when their kid throws a tantrum worthy of an Oscar – tell them! Give them a genuine, “Hey, you handled that like a boss.” It costs nothing, and it lifts both of you.
Then, instead of thinking, “I should be more like them,” ask, “How can I bring a little of that into my own world, in my own way?”
Parenting isn’t about cloning each other. It’s about learning, growing, and swapping notes like a real-life survival guide. You’re allowed to be proud of what you’re doing and still pick up a few new tricks along the way.
So next time you catch yourself comparing, remember: you’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re learning, leading, loving — and that’s more than enough.
And if you ever forget, come sit next to me — I’ve got snacks, stories, and plenty of reminders that you’re doing an amazing job.
After all, it’s not a competition. It’s a team sport. And the best teams lift each other up.
YouMatterMama
Written by
Julie Mundy
You can connect with Julie here:
(C) Break Free Consultancy 2025
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change
