I used to feel disappointed on Mother’s Day every year.
Unmet expectations abounded.
I followed all the rules.
I communicated my wishes clearly.
I stated my needs.
I requested time off from the hard parts of parenting, like decision-making, cooking, and sibling spats.
I even begged the soccer club not to schedule games on Mother’s Day (I mean, WTF?)
Then one year, I realized it was a trap.
So I chose to do Mother’s Day differently, and I’ve loved it ever since. Here’s what I do:
- Saturday is my day. I do whatever the eff I want.
- Sunday is a day for ZERO expectations. That’s the only rule I give myself.
If they want to do something nice for me, rock on.
If they bring me breakfast in bed, I’ll eat it.
If they want a family gathering with all the in-laws, sign me up. I’ll even host the bagel brunch.
If they want to watch TV all day and eat sugar, have at it. I don’t care.
Removing expectations for Sunday was a game-changer.
I invite you to have a wonderful Mother’s Day by avoiding the disappointment trap. You can’t control others. You can influence them ~ but don’t expect them to deliver. If they do, prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
In my mind, Mother’s Day is about feeling good. So if there’s anything you’re doing (like having expectations) that sets you up to feel crummy, maybe it’s time to rethink the holiday for yourself.
I hope that helps, and I hope you have a beautiful Mother’s Day ~ because lord knows, you deserve it.
❤️ Rachel