Do What Works For You

“Do what works for you” is the best piece of advice I have ever been given. Though, I did not realize it until recently.

I have always had a knack – okay, more of an obsession – with doing things my way. The way I saw best. In my younger days, it caused me a lot of problems. I was never considered popular, or at the very least, well-liked. Sure, I was known – people knew who I was and I had people I would hang out with. But, they all seemed to grow stronger bonds with others and my friendships would fizzle away.

Most people do not like to be told how to do things, or that they are wrong (who would??). My younger self was certainly not aware that this was the case.

Learning the How

I consider myself an analytical person. Research and numbers have always been strong suits of mine. In addition, I am passionate about making the “right” decision in every circumstance. But, to truly make an informed decision, I need to be aware of alternatives and possible consequences. Curiosity has sparked many Google searches, quenching whatever sudden thirst for knowledge I’m consumed by.

When Google Goes Wrong

After I became a mother, I spent countless hours on Google trying to find answers or solutions for any- and everything. From feeding and latching issues, to sleep disturbances, changes in digestive patterns – you name it, I Googled it. I was constantly searching for a clearly written guide or manual on how to handle and care for this new, tiny little human being. I somehow managed to forget, or not realize, that she was in fact her own, tiny little person.

We all are.

“A person’s a person, no matter how small.”
Dr. Seuss, Horton Hears a Who

Part of being your own person, is leaning into your strength. Playing into your likes.

In addition to general research, I strongly believe it is important to learn the “rules” before you break them. Give yourself a guideline and understand the very basics, but from there, challenge yourself. Get out of your comfort zone. Do what works for you.

Embrace Individuality

In cooking, or even baking, something new, I will look at several recipes to find a baseline. For example, I focus on what temperature and how long something needs to be cooked for. After that, I give myself creative freedom – seasoning, flavour, spices, sides, additional or substitutional ingredients – the choice is mine. I am not saying recipes you find online are not good enough as they are written- plenty of times they are fantastic. But, I do not always like to follow the rules. In crochet, there are different ways to hold a hook, to yarn over or under. There are yarn preferences, choices in hook size, or stitches. Different projects to choose – some can make sweaters and amigurumis while others have better luck with scarves and blankets. Those who do fantastic colorwork, while others prefer not to, or to work in blocks.

We currently live in an age where possibilities are limitless. That is the true beauty of life itself, it is always a ‘choose your own adventure.’

So, no matter the craft or circumstance do what works for you. Whether you sew, crochet, knit, bake, cook, paint, garden, or anything else it’s important to find and continue with what works for you. While it’s helpful to learn the basics, there are so many variations to each way of doing things the “right” way. Especially in motherhood. However you are able to do what you need to, for your child or just simply to get the job done, do what works for you.