Pinterest Stress: It’s a real thing
Do you have Pinterest stress? Yes, it’s a real thing!
The content on Pinterest is meant to inspire its users. If you like Martha Stewart-type crafts or DIY-home decor projects, you can see how others do them with fabulous results.
The problem happens when moms are convinced we have to live up to the Pinterest version of real life.
For years, we moms have compared ourselves to our friends and neighbors. But every since Pinterest exploded on the scene, we’ve taken our unrealistic competitions to a whole… new… level. Throwing a kids’ birthday party or creating a Halloween costume has become a serious business. In fact, a 2013 study says Pinterest has nearly half of moms feeling stressed and inadequate.
I have a circle of talented, creative girlfriends. Melanie used to decorate birthday cakes for Publix. Cathy stages homes for magazines. Eleanore makes award-winning gingerbread houses. Ann is a professional interior designer, and Anne Hayes is a fabulous cook.
Me? I’m not a crafty, creative DIY enthusiast. I don’t crave the smell of mod podge, and I don’t have an “eye” for color. It’s not how my brain is wired.
If pictures need hanging, I call my in-laws.
If the walls need repainting, I let my husband choose the colors.
And whenever I attempt a DIY-project, my husband makes sure a fire extinguisher and crow bar are handy. Seriously!
The one time I made a faux-stained glass window, my kitchen counter ended up with a thick coat of resin and the window glued firmly to our back porch!
Photo Credit: Muscogee Moms
I’m just an average, absent minded cook. I can follow a recipe, but the results are less than stellar. Those inspirational Lemon Cookies I found on Pinterest? I followed the recipe exactly, but…. epic fail!
#PinterestFail – Photo Credit: Muscogee Moms
I know my strengths and weaknesses. I may not be a good home decorator, but I’m OK with that. Instead, I’m a pretty good writer and editor. And, surprise! I’m a pretty good knitter. In the last four months, I’ve knitted three sweaters, multiple scarves, and an afghan.
Photo Credit: Muscogee Moms
When Toni Morrison was asked how she found the time to write as a single, poor mother, she responded that she writes, “in the edges of the day.” I’m not Toni Morrison, but I’m finding the edges in my day to do the things I love. I’ve written entire blogs in my head while waiting in the car rider line at school.
Last month I knitted all the way to the beach and back while my husband drove. And as I type this blog, my current project (a grey wool sweater) is draped across my lap.
Whether you’re a professional woman or have a crafty side, think about how you spend your time. Do the things you enjoy and love. Let Pinterest inspire you, but not traumatize you. Choose what you like and are good at, and find the edges in your day to do them.
Let the rest go.
However, if you thrive on planning birthday parties, contact me. I’m willing to trade a knitted scarf for Minecraft-themed party favors.
