5 Reasons Why It’s Perfectly Okay to Be an “OK Mom”
Let’s Face It: The Perfect Mom Doesn’t Exist.
Yet, we all secretly believe she’s out there—probably posting beautifully staged photos of her kids eating organic kale chips on Instagram.
Want to know the truth?
Motherhood is messy, unpredictable, and filled with moments where “OK” is more than good enough.
In fact, being an “OK Mom” might just be the Healthiest, Happiest Approach to Parenting There Is.
Here are five solid reasons why embracing your “OK Mom” status is not only perfectly fine—but downright liberating.
1. Your Kids Need a Human, Not a Hero
We’ve been sold the idea that good moms always have a spotless house, Pinterest-worthy lunches, and endless patience. But here’s the thing: Kids don’t need a superhero. They need a human.
When you let your kids see that you’re not perfect—that you burn dinner, forget spirit week, or sometimes need a break—you’re modeling resilience. You’re teaching them that it’s okay to make mistakes, take time to rest, and not have all the answers.
Sure, you could spend an extra hour hand-crafting cupcakes for the school bake sale.
But wouldn’t that time be better spent reading a bedtime story or—dare I say—taking a hot shower without interruptions?
When you show up as your perfectly imperfect self, you’re giving your kids permission to do the same.
2. Perfection Is Overrated (and Exhausting)
Let’s be real: trying to be a “perfect mom” is an impossible, soul-sucking job. No matter how much effort you put in, there’s always something else to do, buy, or perfect.
And guess what? It’s not making anyone happier—not you, not your kids, and definitely not your partner (And, if you think your partner is looking for perfection, then the next blog is for you!).
When you settle for being “OK,” you’re freeing yourself from the constant pressure to overachieve.
Did you microwave dinner? Great—your kids are fed.
Did you let them watch TV while you answered emails? Awesome—everyone survived the day.
Your family doesn’t need you running on fumes because you’re chasing some unattainable ideal. What they do need is
A mom who has the energy to laugh, play, and connect.
3. Good Enough Parenting Builds Resilient Kids
Here’s a secret: being an “OK Mom” might actually be better for your kids than striving for perfection. When you hover, over-schedule, or micromanage every detail, you’re denying your kids the chance to figure things out on their own.
Psychologists call this the “good enough parent” theory, and it’s a game-changer. Kids don’t need constant coddling or a perfect home. They need room to fail, problem-solve, and bounce back. When you step back and let your kids navigate their own challenges (even if it means mismatched socks or a less-than-perfect science project), you’re giving them tools for real-life success.
So go ahead—be the mom who forgets to pack the extra snack or who says, “Figure it out.” It’s not neglect; it’s empowerment.
4. You’re Setting a Healthy Example
You know what your kids will remember most about you? It won’t be the hand-sewn Halloween costumes or the meticulously planned birthday parties. It’ll be the way you made them feel and the example you set.
When you show your kids that it’s okay to have boundaries, say no, or prioritize your own well-being, you’re giving them a roadmap for a balanced life.
Want them to grow up knowing how to rest, ask for help, and take care of themselves?
Start by doing those things for yourself.
Skip the guilt trip when you say no to chaperoning one more field trip or opt for store-bought cupcakes. Your kids will thank you someday (and you’ll thank yourself now).
5. OK Moms Raise Happier Families
When you stop striving for perfection, you leave space for the good stuff—like joy, connection, and spontaneity. Your kids don’t need elaborate crafts or perfectly curated family outings. What they need is you.
Some of the best parenting moments happen when you let go of the script.
Remember the time dinner turned into a “breakfast-for-dinner” pancake party? Or when a rainy day led to a living-room dance-off? These moments don’t come from perfection; they come from being present.
By embracing your “OK Mom” status, you’re showing your family that life doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. And isn’t that the real goal of parenting?
Embrace Your “OK Mom” Badge with Pride
Being an “OK Mom” doesn’t mean you’re failing.
It means you’re human.
It means you’re raising kids who know that life is messy, people are imperfect, and love is what matters most.
So, the next time you feel like you’re falling short, remember this: Your kids don’t need a perfect mom. They need you.
And you’re doing a pretty great job at being OK.
Need Support Around Letting Go of the Pressures and Embracing the Joy of Being an OK Mom?
Schedule a free consultation call here to see how I can help!
At Veraluna Wellness, I offer online psychotherapy services in Chicago, IL, and Charleston, SC, as well as for residents across Illinois and South Carolina.
Hi, I’m Dawn Leprich-Graves, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, ASDCS, a licensed individual and couples therapist in IL & SC, coach, teacher and a late diagnosed AuDHD'er-turned neuro-affirming advocate, passionate about helping women embrace their authentic selves and live with intention.
I offer therapy sessions & intensives to support growth, balance, and connection.
Visit my websites to find out more about how I can help support you on your Journey:
Veraluna Wellness - Online Psychotherapy and Therapy Intensives for Individuals & Couples in Illinois & South Carolina
Celeste Genevieve Counseling - In-person Psychotherapy and Therapy Intensives for Individuals & Couples in Aurora, Illinois
Cultivating Bricolage - Coaching, Courses, Workshops & Memberships for Entrepreneurs
The Therapist Space (Bricolage Collective) - Membership Directory for therapists offering and or looking for office space and/or services therapists need to thrive in their practices
