Women make up more than 50 per cent of the workforce, with nearly four in ten homes in the US featuring a working mother at the helm. But being a full time working mother can be tough. This balancing act affects women in different ways but can lead to common things like guilt and stress.
Here are some ways to help find the right balance between your career and your home life.
Let go of the guilt
Rather than dwell on how guilty you feel for leaving your child, instead focus on how your family benefits from you being at work. What do you bring to the table at the end of a long week? Maybe your extra income is the difference between an after-school club or a nice family holiday in the summer. Knowing your worth both at home and in the workplace will allow you to be efficient and practical in both places, without letting one influence the other. Above all, accept that there will be good days and bad days.
Stay connected during the day
Facebook is a wonderful tool for connecting with people near and far. With childcare, it goes that extra mile, with many facilities operating their own private social channels, especially for parents to check in with their kids throughout the day. If you’re feeling worried about your child, or just want to check in, you can always call and ask your childminder how they’re getting on.
Optimise your mornings
We know this is easier said than done, but once you get into the habit of it, getting ready the night before is the easiest thing in the world. And it really does make the mornings that much smoother! Save yourself the hassle and lay out clothes, pack lunches (for you and daddy as well!), and prep some oats for porridge so all you have to do is heat it up, eat, and get in the car!
Be disciplined
As an employee, there may be pressure on you to respond to emails during the evening or even weekend hours. Be disciplined on when you allow yourself access to your work emails or calls. This will help to make the most out of your family time, allowing you to engage with minimum distractions. Vice versa for during the working hours!
Find your me time
This is probably more important than all of the above! Without some time during the week focused on just you, you may find yourself being stretched thin. Always make time to do something special that you will enjoy. This could be an exercise class, a bubble bath or a coffee with friends – all allow you time to be you – who you were before the job and the family.
maternity & infant
Originally posted 2018-02-09 16:02:23.