Send us Fan Mail

Have you ever found yourself thinking, "I know what I should be doing, so why am I still not doing it?"

If you've ever felt weighed down by all the things you should be doing to look after yourself, this episode is for you.

As I wrap up this season of Farm Life Psych, I want to leave you with something a little different. Not another strategy or another thing to add to your to-do list, but permission. Permission to let go of perfection, to stop measuring yourself against impossible standards, and to remember that being human was never meant to look flawless.

In this episode, I talk about the idea of "good enough humaning" and how aiming for 30% instead of 100% might help you show up more consistently for the people and things that matter most.

We talk about values, capacity, repair after we get things wrong, and why progress is so often found in the small moments rather than perfect ones.

If you've been carrying a heavy load or feeling like you're falling short, I hope this conversation helps you put some of those "shoulds" down.

I'd love to hear what resonated with you. What does "good enough" look like in your season of life? Come and connect with me over on Instagram at @stephschmidt.farmlifepsych  and send me a message or share your thoughts. I always love hearing from you

What we cover in this episode

• Introduction to the pressure of always feeling like you "should" be doing more.
• Reflecting on the season and why returning to the basics felt important.
• Why helpful wellbeing strategies can become another source of pressure.
• Turning "shoulds" into shame and recognising this common human experience.
• Introducing the idea of "good enough humaning".
• The psychology behind the "Good Enough Parent" concept.
• Why repair matters more than perfection.
• Extending ourselves the same grace we often offer others.
• Living by our values without expecting perfection.
• Why aiming for 100% often sets us up to struggle.
• The idea of aiming for 30% instead of 100%.
• Practical examples of what 30% might look like in everyday life.
• Understanding capacity during busy farming seasons.
• Using values as a compass rather than a measuring stick.
• Small, imperfect actions that move us towards what matters.
• Final reflections and encouragement to let go of perfection.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• The concept of the "Good Enough Parent" developed by paediatrician and psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott.
• Research and concepts relating to attachment, rupture and repair in parent-child relationships.
  
  

Connect with Steph

• Steph's website
• Digital Hub for Farmers: farmlifehandbook.com.au 
• Steph on Facebook
• Steph on LinkedIn
• Steph on Instagram
• Steph's upcoming events

The Farm Life Psych podcast shares general information and personal reflections to support wellbeing — it isn't therapy, counselling, or personal advice, and it's not a substitute for support from a qualified professional. If something's sitting heavily with you, please reach out to your GP, a psychologist, or a trusted support service. If you're in crisis or need to talk to someone now, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. You're not alone, and reaching out is a strength.