The Perspective from Here
Behind the Scenes
Whether it is making a movie, designing a conference, or raising a child, there is much work that goes on behind the scenes. We often lose sight of this with the fast pace of life we can get caught up in. It can be easy to be critical when we don't acknowledge the work hours that have gone into something. Or we assume someone must have the perfect life based on what we see. We forget about the time and effort that goes into what is presented to us.
And this is so true in parenting. Perhaps even more so.
The sleepless nights, the teething baby, the juggling of work and childrearing, trying to get out the door on time - the list goes on and on. And while much of the behind-the-scenes stuff is "typical" child development and family life, we add the layer of peer pressure to present "that" image to the world that all is "fine."
I have written before about the facade of social media: it is often used to put our best selves public-facing. As a result of this, intentionally or not, we pressure ourselves to live that public-facing life and put an incredible amount of stress on ourselves - especially parents. We doubt ourselves, are self-critical, and assume we are not enough.
You are more than enough.
Life is not pretty or perfect, and the more we can be honest with ourselves about the dynamic journey life is and the more we can share that honestly, the more calm and accepting of our personal journeys and parenting styles we will become.
Behind the scenes isn't just what happens behind closed doors; it also happens within our internal self. By focusing on our own inner well-being, we recognize that building a strong core is essential behind-the-scenes work. We should not be stressed that one toddler walked before another or that our baby belly isn't that teenage waist it once was. By focusing internally and not on the external images, we can build an inner strength that will help us navigate the outside world with grace and authenticity.
You are enough. Be true to yourself.
Stretch marks drool on your shoulder, bags under your eyes. There is no need to hide your true self behind the scenes. Come as you are and share your story.
That's the perspective from here.
Stay well,
Pam Rennie, BA, BEd, RECE
