Your motherhood doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Let me say that again.

Your motherhood doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

In fact, it shouldn’t.

No one else has walked in your shoes.
No one else has gained your wisdom.

And, yet, as mothers, we let the comparison game direct our steps and steal our joy.

This is why Pinterest thrives.
This is why Facebook depresses.
This is why we’re all broke.

But I want to share with you what I’m learning:

You have the freedom to say “no” – to the extravagant birthday parties, to the designer yoga pants, to the notion that more stuff brings happiness.

Yep, as often as you want.

And here’s the thing:

You will first disappoint people.
But, then, you will gain their respect.

That’s right - eventually people will love you for the self-control you practice.

And the crazy thing is, you’re more likely to inspire positive change in others when you choose it for yourself.

So, today, follow the path you know is best for you and encourage others to do the same.

Because we only get one life.

And, when we don’t get caught up with everyone else’s, I swear:

We might just fall in love with who we are.

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