What version of tired?

Version 1: Lack of sleep

Your body needs sleep, but you aren’t getting enough.

This hits hard early and continues on for a while. It’s what people are asking about when they say “How’s the sleep going?” and “Getting any sleep?”

This version of tired is real.

Version 2: Wear and tear

The ups and downs. The tests of patience. Day in and day out. Raising kids is hard.

This crayon is the wrong color. There aren’t enough blueberries. Every waking moment is snack time. Skipped naps. The diaper need not be worn.

Version 2 is compounded by Version 1, but don’t confuse the two.

Version 3: Choose your own adventure

Staring at a screen. Sitting all day. Not exercising. Bad posture. Eating unhealthy. Not reading. Not saying I love you. Not being grateful for the little things. Not serving others. Blaming others. Woe is me.

Sure, you can let Version 3 be the norm, especially when Versions 1 and 2 are hitting hard.

But Version 3 is ultimately your call.