As a parent, I found myself trapped in a tempest of expectations, societal standards, and the haunting whispers of perfectionism. Every skipped bedtime story, every less-than-nutritious meal—it all became ammunition for the guilt that seemed to be an ever-present companion on this parenting journey.

For years, I wore a mask—a facade of strength and invulnerability. In a world that often equates toughness with success, I thought I had to shield my vulnerabilities from the prying eyes of judgment. Little did I know, the armor I wore was not a shield but a barrier, separating me from genuine connection and stifling my own growth.

We've all been there—the awkward silence after someone praises us, not knowing whether to smile, shrug it off, or just say a simple "thanks." It's like standing at a crossroads with no signposts. I want to take you on a journey into the often underestimated world of compliments.