Why Is the perfect parent myth problematic?

Striving to be a good parent is a positive goal, but chasing perfection? That’s a setup for stress, guilt and burnout. Here’s why this myth is harmful:

Impact on you

• Self-esteem takes a hit when you feel like you're not "achieving" parenthood.
• Relaxation feels like a waste of time.
• Self-criticism becomes constant when you don't meet unrealistic expectations.
• Stress and burnout increase.
• Self-care gets pushed aside.
• Mental health suffers, leading to anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion.
• Self-doubt and guilt become constant companions.

Impact on your relationships

• Conflict increases because mistakes feel intolerable.
• The focus shifts to what's wrong instead of what's going well.
• Your child feels pressured to meet impossible standards.
• Children don’t get space to make mistakes and learn from them.
• Resentment builds and blame creeps into relationships.

Perfection isn’t the goal—growth is. Embracing imperfection creates space for connection, trust, and learning together.