Like many driven women, I used to believe that "doing more" was the secret to success at work, at home, and especially as a parent.
I thought more activities, more careful planning, and more involvement would make me the perfect mom.
I was juggling it all long shifts as a doctor, running businesses, and still making Pinterest-worthy lunches, attending every school event, and signing up for every volunteer spot.
I did everything. But the real question was: Was I truly there for my kids?
The Moment I Realized Something Had to Change
After a while, the pressure to be the "perfect mom" didn’t just exhaust me it made me miserable.
Worse, it didn’t make my kids any happier either.
That's when I decided to start doing less.
And honestly? I've never been a more joyful, present parent than I am today.
Breaking Free from the “Perfect Mom” Trap
We’re told we can have it all if we just hustle harder, plan better, or hire more help.
But chasing that dream often leads to burnout, resentment, and guilt not the happiness we’re promised.
I used to think being a good mom meant managing every little thing:
- Overseeing homework
- Organizing packed schedules
- Signing up for every after-school activity
I thought it showed love.
But all it did was leave me stressed, tired, and disconnected from what really mattered: enjoying my time with my kids.
I finally asked myself, "Are my kids truly happier because I'm burning myself out?"
The honest answer? A loud and clear no.
What "Doing Less" Looks Like for Me
Doing less doesn't mean ignoring my kids.
It means focusing on what truly matters not what looks impressive on Instagram.
Here’s what changed:
- I stopped doing everything myself. I started outsourcing where I could grocery delivery, hiring sitters, and letting my kids handle their own small tasks.
- I stopped micromanaging. When my kids finish homework, I just ask, "Did you double-check it?" That’s it. They are 10 years old they need to learn responsibility.
- I stopped cooking every night. My husband enjoys cooking, so he handles most meals. If not, we grab healthy takeout without guilt.
- I say no without feeling bad. I don’t volunteer for every school event anymore. I once risked my health rushing from the hospital just to deliver cookies my kids barely noticed. Never again.
- I ditched the over-packed schedules. My kids used to have an exhausting lineup: tutoring, swimming, tennis, cheer, ballet, and more. Now? We value free time. They ride bikes, walk the dogs, make slime, and just be kids.
Doing Less Made Me a Better Leader (and a Happier Person)
The biggest surprise?
When I stepped back, my kids stepped up.
They became more independent, confident, and resilient.
By giving them space, I gave them strength.
And guess what?
The same lesson applies in business.
The best leaders empower their teams instead of controlling every move.
Parenting is no different.
The pressure to "do it all" is a trap not a trophy.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your family (and yourself) is slow down, breathe deeply, and actually enjoy the life you’ve worked so hard to create.