We had a problem.
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​Somehow amidst busy schedules (and a bit of neglect), our family was rarely eating dinner together. Full disclosure--we were rarely eating dinner at all. Just picking away and snacking to get by. 
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​And we were all getting tired of it. 
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​Not only did we miss the connection we enjoyed during mealtime, but we were not eating well either. 
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​Something needed to change. 
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​But whenever we talked about it, we all looked at each other to solve the problem; in other words, none of us wanted to be the solution. 
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​It seems reasonable that I should take on the responsibility; I am the mom, after all. But I felt strongly that our kids could step up and help out more. And I didn't want to rob them of the opportunity.
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​So, we came up with a plan. 
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​Each of us chose one night of the week that we would be in charge of dinner. We would eat leftovers or simple meals on the other nights. 
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​Sounds like a simple and obvious solution, right? But here's the thing: my tendency is usually to just take it all on myself. I fix things. I problem-solve. I make up the difference. 
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​But when I do that, I often rob my kids of gaining the confidence that comes from pitching in and contributing. And I rob them of the opportunity to gain new skills and learn to figure things out. 
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​And that's the last thing I want. 
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​Sure, I could make time to prepare dinner every night. But not only could I use the help, I love watching our kids do their part. They plan, request the proper groceries, and prepare the meals. 
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​And you know what? 
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​It's going great! Not perfectly, of course. But we are making it work.
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If you're a mom who thinks you need to do it all, listen up.  When you take on everything yourself, you often rob your kiddos of the opportunity to step up and thrive. 
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​So here's a small challenge: Take a minute to figure out one thing you could delegate to one of your children. Then get excited about helping him/her feel capable and needed by being a contributor. 
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​It probably won't go perfectly, so don't let that discourage you. 
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​Keep trying, and remember . . . 
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​You got this!