The Perfect Stepmother: Skip the Fairytale and Keep It Real by Mary T. Kelly, MA
Myths about perfection aren’t exclusive to stepfamilies, but still.
If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard a woman lament the fact that she’s trying to achieve perfection—in her role as a stepmom—and fears she’s failing miserably? I’d be swimming in a sea of Versace, taking laps around my private yacht in Louboutin footwear and throwing back $49,000-a-bottle Dom Pérignon Rose Gold as if it were water.
If I led a fairytale lifestyle, that is. (I’m too down-to-earth for that crap.) Don’t believe me?
Take a quick listen:
“I just want to be a perfect stepmother!”
“I want to show others how I am trying to be a great and perfect stepmother.”
“I’m pouring myself into my new role because I want to create the perfect home environment for my new blended family.”
These women are not alone. I have a sneaking suspicion their words resonate with you, too. It’s like a disease. We become stepmoms and suddenly we believe, “Poof! If I were The Perfect Stepmother, my stepkids would love and accept me. My partner would appreciate my diligent efforts. And others—yes, even the ex—would see what a perfect role model I am for his kids.” …To read the rest of this article, log in to your account and download the February 2017 issue. Don’t have an account? Click here to subscribe.