Coming to Terms With ‘Good Enough’

Summary

The article discusses the concept of being "good enough" and the importance of self-acceptance in the face of ever-changing standards.

Abstract

The author reflects on the elusive nature of feeling "good enough," noting that this benchmark shifts unpredictably. On some days, the author feels confident and capable, while on others, the standard seems unattainably high. The key to navigating this fluctuation lies in setting clear goals, such as being a good mother or maintaining daily creativity. These goals provide a measure of success, allowing the author to look back on the day and acknowledge efforts made, even if they aren't perfect. The article emphasizes the significance of holding an intention and honoring it to the best of one's ability, accepting the day's accomplishments, and looking forward to the potential of tomorrow. The overarching message is that self-acceptance in the present moment is sufficient to lead a beautiful life.

Opinions

The author believes that the concept of "good enough" is subjective and can vary significantly from day to day.
Self-doubt is identified as a major challenge, with the author choosing to measure personal success through the happiness of her children.
Creativity is valued as a daily goal, with any form of progress seen as a victory.
The idea of "enough" is not about achieving the best possible outcome but about making an effort and upholding one's intentions amidst life's demands.
The author suggests that embracing the concept of "good enough" can lead to excitement for future opportunities rather than feeling overwhelmed by the possibility of endless improvement.
Self-acceptance is presented as a crucial element for a fulfilling life, with the acceptance of each day's efforts being enough to ensure a sense of beauty in one's life journey.

Friday Prompt: At what point are you good enough? When are you self-improved enough to accept yourself?

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Good enough, that often fleeting and ever changing feeling.

Good enough is a bench post that moves of it’s own accord and without rhyme or reason. Somedays I am more than good enough. I am strong and certain of myself, my abilities and my intention to do my best. Other days, good enough is a pedestal so high I don’t even attempt the climb.

The levelling thought which brings me back to centre, is knowing my destination.

If I have a goal in mind, all of a sudden I have a unit of measure. I’ll give you an example.

My most consistent goal is to be a good mother. Self doubt being my greatest enemy I choose to measure my success by the happiness of my children at the end of the day. There will have been highs and lows as the 24 hours pass, but most often they are satisfied and smiling sleepily at the end of their day and I know I have been good enough.

My second most consistent goal is to be creative every day. That can take many forms but as the house falls quiet, and I reflect with my journal in my lap. I can usually look objectively at what I have done, be it a completed piece of writing, notes for new ideas, or progress on my latest yarn project, and I can say ‘I have done enough for today’.

That’s not to say I’ve done my best, or that I could have done so much more. Enough means I tried. I held an intention for my day and I honoured it the best I could, while moving through the demands of daily life.

To be ‘good enough’ means an acceptance that there could always be more and instead of feeling exhausted by that prospect, feeling excited for tomorrow.

If I can accept myself for today, in this moment, that is all that is needed. For if I can do that for each and every one of my days, I will have lived a beautiful life.

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