Parenting for Dummies: Nailing 'Good Enough' Like a Pro

Have you ever looked at another parent who seems to have it all together—perfect snacks, spotless house, zen-like patience—and thought, Am I doing this all wrong? Welcome to the club. Parenthood is a wild land of coffee-fueled survival, endless laundry, and the constant feeling that maybe, just maybe, you’re winging it. But here’s the kicker: you don’t need to be perfect to be a great parent—just good enough. Yep, there’s actually a bar low enough for all of us to reach. So here are four steps to help you hang onto your sanity (and self-worth) as you navigate the chaos.

Step 1: Embrace "Good Enough"

Let’s be honest: “good enough” parenting is about showing up. That means being present and emotionally available most of the time, especially when your child really needs you. Sometimes, that’ll be possible; other times, not so much. But at the end of the day, make time for the things that matter. Be there just enough for your kid to feel seen and supported—even if you don’t have Pinterest-worthy snacks or an Insta-perfect living room. And when you need a break, it’s okay to step back for a moment. Just don’t forget to come back when it counts.

Step 2: Know You’re Going to Mess Up

Mistakes? Oh, they’re going to happen. You’ll lose your cool, say the wrong thing, and maybe even (gasp!) let them binge a four-hour movie marathon just so you can catch your breath. Here’s the thing: good enough parents own their mistakes. We apologize, we learn, and then we move forward. Think of it as modeling growth for your kids. Show them that it’s okay to mess up and try again. And please, let’s leave the “Do as I say, not as I do” approach in the past. You’re their role model, flaws and all.

Step 3: Understand That Substance Use is a No-Go

Sure, there’s the occasional glass of wine after bedtime (cheers!), but if your nightly routine involves more drinks than bedtime stories, it might be time to reassess. Substance misuse can seriously limit our emotional availability and cloud our priorities—two things that are critical in parenting. The goal here is to be emotionally “in the room” so you can help your kid become a functioning human being. If that’s not happening because of substance use, it’s time to make a change.

Step 4: Stop Blaming Yourself for Your Kid’s Every Feeling

Repeat after me: You are not responsible for all of your child’s issues. Kids develop their own personalities and face their own struggles. You didn’t cause their insecurities unless you’re actively mistreating them or neglecting their needs. Parenting is about doing our best, but it’s not about creating perfect little humans. The goal is to be “good enough” so they can grow in a safe, loving environment where they feel supported—even if they’re a little messy along the way.

So, if you’re out there, imperfect and stumbling, but still showing up and doing your best? Congratulations! You’re officially “good enough.” And that’s something worth celebrating. Keep doing your best—you’ll Make it Possible for your children to grow and flourish.