20% Mom

There's a concept in economics called the Pareto Principle, or more commonly known as the 80/20 rule. Put simply, it states that in economics (and others have shown its application in nature, business, relationships, and more) 80% of the results come from 20% of the effort. That means most of the effort actually doesn't really make a difference. 

What stronger example do we have of this in action than in motherhood? 

In any given day, we give 100% of what we have. Most of that effort feels like we give and give and give, with nothing to show for it. Well, according to Pareto, that actually tracks. Only 20% of our effort really makes a difference. But oh, what a powerful 20% difference that makes. 

The 20% shows up when we comfort their anxious thoughts. 
It shows up when we model what it looks like to own our mistakes and try better. 
It shows up when we listen to their challenges and testify of God's love for them.
It shows up in our face that lights up when they walk in the room. 
It shows up in the long hug, where we hold them until they break it.
It shows up in the tone of our voice when we call them for dinner. 
It shows up in the way we pray for them by name.

There are a thousand ways that 20% shows up (turns out there are a LOT of things we do each day in our motherhood). Just remember, when you've given 80% and it feels like it's all for nothing, focus on the remaining 20% that really matters. It's enough. 

P.S. This is how I manage to say "yes" to hobbies and projects outside of motherhood. I have 80% of my tasks that are either outsource-able or non-essential, that can be condensed or skipped altogether and no one suffers one bit. Pretty cool, right??