I have the same problem and feeling about it as you,
@thefaeriesgirl.
I try my best to have fun with it, which is why I think I do silly things in the challenges like sit the family down to have a pancake meal together, and so forth.
I set myself the task of trying my best at the challenges and seeing if I can finish them. If not, I've tried my best with my limited understanding of the game and its mechanics and because I've tried, I can put myself down as DNF if need be.
I've stopped looking at the leadership board, apart from my position, which I know will be last, or almost last, and just focus on my individual score.