I think us working parents have it pretty tough. Being fully committed to work and family is an impossible task that we have to take on. It can be exhausting and thankless, and sometimes we’re perceived as not being fully present as an employee or a parent. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
If you learn to find a balance, it’s possible to have a fulfilling full-time career whilst taking an active role as a parent. I hope some of these tips will help to make juggling the two sides a little easier.
- Let go of the guilt! Being a working parent is something to be admired, not judged or shamed. So if you’re feeling guilty about not being with your child all the time, it’s time to let it go people. Focus on the positives your career is contributing to your family. Your children will feel the extent of your love and understand your sacrifice.
- Save time! Plan strategically. Order your food shop online when you can. Schedule calls for on your commute and try to get errands done during your lunch break. This will all free up more time during the week. Prepare yours and your children’s lunches the night before, and then the mornings will be more enjoyable for everyone.
- Outsource chores! Put your kids to work and give them their own chores. My children are always willing to get involved, I think it makes them feel important! If you are financially able to take on a cleaner…once a week, or once a month to deep clean your house then do it! This will free up your time.
- Reduce distractions! Time is precious so be mindful of your productivity during your working hours, limit long lunch breaks and surfing the internet for that perfect pair of Christmas pajamas you’ve been wanting…try and get the most out of your work time! When you feel productive, you feel good.
- Say yes to less! Determine how much you can handle? Don’t feel bad about saying no. Make sure you leave yourself time for much needed rest and quality playtime with your children. We all have a bad habit of putting our own needs last in order to take care of everyone else first. Some great ways to relax and recharge are yoga, meditation, exercise, reading, writing, catching up with a friend or quite simply pampering yourself. Writing a gratitude journal can be a great way to put things into perspective.
- Make the best of both worlds! Can we have the best of both a fulfilling family life and a successful career? Yes of course we can! Recognise and appreciate all of the brilliant things you do and have. It may not look exactly how you pictured it, but don’t let that deceive you. Just take it one day at a time.
