There are days when everything feels like it’s slipping.
I replay moments in my head and wonder if I handled things right.
When I feel like I didn’t do enough—or did too much.
When the weight of caring feels heavier than usual.
On those days, it’s easy to think:
I’m failing at this.
But over time, I’ve learned that those thoughts usually show up when I’m exhausted, overwhelmed, or stretched too thin—not when I’m actually doing something wrong.
So here are a few things I remind myself on the days that feel hardest.
Maybe they’ll help you, too.
I Remind Myself That Hard Days Don’t Define Me
One rough day does not erase all the good ones.
One mistake does not cancel out all the care I give.
One moment of frustration does not define the love I carry for my child.
Hard days are part of this life—but they are not the whole story.
I Remember That Trying Still Counts
There are days when things go smoothly, and days when they absolutely do not.
But even on the messy days:
- I showed up
- I paid attention
- I cared deeply
And that matters.
Effort doesn’t have to look perfect to be real.
I Tell Myself That I’m Learning, Not Failing
Special needs parenting doesn’t come with a manual.
So much of it is learning through experience—adjusting, trying again, changing course when needed.
When something doesn’t work, it’s easy to see it as a failure.
But more often than not, it’s just information.
And information helps us grow.
I Remember That Exhaustion Distorts Perspective
When I’m tired, everything feels heavier.
Small things feel huge.
Every day struggles feel like proof that I’m not doing enough.
On those days, I try not to trust every thought that comes through my mind.
Fatigue has a way of making everything sound harsher than it truly is.
Rest changes the story more than criticism ever could, reminding you that taking care of yourself is vital for your well-being.
I Choose Compassion Over Criticism
It’s easy to speak harshly to myself.
To focus on what I should’ve done differently.
To replay moments I wish I could redo.
But I’ve learned that compassion helps me grow far more than judgment ever did.
So I try to ask:
What would I say to another parent in this moment?
And then—slowly—I try to offer myself that same kindness, knowing that compassion over criticism nurtures growth and resilience.
A Gentle Reminder to End With
Today felt like too much…
If nothing went the way you hoped…
If you’re questioning yourself right now…
Let this be your reminder:
You are not failing—you are navigating something challenging with care, love, and persistence.
And that is something to be gentle with, not ashamed of.
,
