As a new parent, it’s easy to feel like you’re never doing enough. The house is a mess, the laundry is piling up, and you can’t even remember the last time you finished a hot cup of tea. Meanwhile, social media is full of “perfect” parents baking, crafting, and smiling with their babies.
Here’s the truth: you are doing enough. And one of the best ways to see that is by celebrating the small wins. Because in the fog of sleepless nights and endless feeds, those little victories add up to something huge.
Why Small Wins Matter
1. They Build Confidence
When you’re exhausted and overwhelmed, it’s easy to focus on what you haven’t done. But noticing what you have achieved - even something tiny - reminds you that you’re capable and making progress.
2. They Reduce Overwhelm
Big goals (“be a perfect parent”) are impossible. Small wins break life into bite-sized pieces that feel manageable.
3. They Create Momentum
Success builds on success. A small win, like managing a shower or a short walk, gives you the energy and motivation to tackle the next thing.
Examples of Small Wins in the First Months
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Getting everyone dressed (even if it’s midday).
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Managing a nap when the baby naps.
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Eating a proper meal instead of just biscuits.
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Going for a short walk with the pram.
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Replying to one text you’ve been ignoring.
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Putting a load of washing on (even if it doesn’t get folded).
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Asking for help when you need it.
How to Notice (and Celebrate) Them
Keep a Daily Note
Write down one thing you managed each day. It could be as simple as “I brushed my teeth.” Looking back shows how much you’re doing.
Say It Out Loud
Share your small wins with your partner or a friend. Sometimes saying “I finally sorted the nappy bag” makes you realise it’s an achievement.
Change the Story in Your Head
Instead of “I only did one load of laundry,” try: “I did a load of laundry while looking after a newborn. That’s amazing.”
Use Visual Reminders
Ticking off a list, putting a gold star on a calendar, or even snapping a photo can remind you how far you’ve come.
Shifting Perspective: What “Enough” Really Means
Parenting isn’t about getting everything right. It’s about meeting needs in the moment: food, comfort, safety, and love. If your baby is fed, cared for, and loved, that is enough.
Social media can make this harder to believe. Perfectly styled nurseries, designer baby clothes, and parents who seem to have it all together are often more about image than reality. It’s usually a highlight reel, not real life.
That said, if you love decorating a nursery or dressing your baby in beautiful clothes - that’s your choice, and it’s valid too. The key is to figure out what works best for you and your family. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Their “enough” isn’t yours, and that’s okay.
When Small Wins Feel Impossible
Some days, even the tiniest win feels out of reach. That doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re tired, human, and carrying a lot.
If these days start to pile up and you’re feeling stuck in sadness, panic, or hopelessness, it might be more than just a tough patch. That’s the time to reach out:
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Talk to your midwife, health visitor, or GP - they’re there to support your wellbeing as well as your baby’s.
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Call NHS 111 if you’re unsure where to start.
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Charities like the PANDAS Foundation UK specialise in supporting new parents with anxiety or low mood.
Common Questions
Why do I feel like I’m not doing enough?
Because parenting is 24/7, it never feels finished. But caring for a baby, even just holding them while they sleep is already enough.
What if I don’t manage any small wins some days?
That’s okay. Survival is sometimes the biggest win of all. Tomorrow is a fresh start.
How can I stop comparing myself to others?
Limit social media, remind yourself people only show highlights, and focus on your own small victories instead.
Is “good enough” really enough for my baby?
Yes. Research shows babies thrive with “good enough” parenting. Being present, responsive, and loving most of the time.
Parenthood isn’t measured in spotless houses or picture-perfect days. It’s measured in cuddles, feeds, giggles, and showing up again and again, even when you’re exhausted.
Small wins. Making it outside for a walk, eating lunch, or simply getting through the day, are proof that you’re doing enough.
So the next time you catch yourself thinking you’re not achieving anything, stop. Look at your baby. Look at yourself. You are doing more than enough, one small win at a time.