Disappointment has been on my mind lately, and I imagine you can relate. There are some really great things that come along with parenting and yet it also has its share of disappointments. I often found myself wrestling with the weight of expectations. It's not easy admitting that the source of disappointment isn't external, rather it comes from within – from the expectations I set on myself as a mother and therefore for my child to fulfill those expectations so I felt good about myself. We all have dreams and aspirations for our children, hoping they'll flourish in certain areas, follow a certain path. But here's the kicker – kids are their own unique individuals, with their own strengths and passions. Sometimes, they don't align with the script we had in mind. And that can be tough to swallow. It's a lesson in humility, a reminder that my child is not an extension of me, but a beautifully independent soul on their own journey. Of course, at times you'll feel disappointed, and it's also important to go to your SafeSeat when you recognize these feelings. Noticing that the disappointment is often rooted in the expectations you place on yourself and your kids gives you the opportunity to offer self-kindness. So, I'm taking a step back, visiting my SafeSeat, recalibrating my expectations, and learning to appreciate the incredible qualities and talents my child possesses, even if they differ from what I envisioned. Let's keep it real! Your child is not here to fulfill your dreams; they're here to create their own. And in embracing that truth, you might just find a more profound and authentic joy in the journey of parenthood.