There's no doubt that balancing a demanding career with the responsibilities of raising school-aged children can be a difficult and overwhelming task. From early morning school runs, to after-school activities, meal planning, health appointments and everything else in between, it can feel like there are just not enough hours in the day to get everything done. On top of that, the added pressure of performing well in the workplace can make it even more difficult for us working mums to achieve a healthy work-life balance. However, finding a a happy medium between work and family is crucial for the wellbeing of both parents and children, so we need to find ways to fit everything in around our busy schedules. Whether you're just starting out on this journey or have been balancing work and family for years, hopefully you find these ideas insightful.
Set Priorities
It's important to be clear about what's most important to you and your family. Take some time to think about your values and what matters most to you. This could mean setting aside certain times for work and other times for family. When you're clear about what's most important, it becomes easier to make decisions about how to allocate your time and energy. It can also help you feel more fulfilled and less stressed, knowing that you're spending your time on what truly matters.
Get Organised
Keep a schedule and a to-do list to help you stay on top of your responsibilities. Make sure to include time for yourself, as well as time for work and family. You may also want to consider using tools like calendars and task management apps to keep yourself organised and on track. This can help you feel more in control and reduce stress, as you'll be able to see exactly what needs to be done and when.
Communicate with your Partner
Communication is key when it comes to balancing work and parenting responsibilities. Make sure to have open and honest conversations with your partner about your schedules and what each of you need in order to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This could mean dividing up responsibilities, such as one parent handling pick-up and the other handling dinner, or it could mean having set days where one parent works late and the other takes over the majority of parenting responsibilities. Whatever it takes, make sure you're on the same page and working together as a team.
Take Breaks
It's important to take breaks throughout the day to recharge and refresh your mind. Even if it's just for a few minutes, stepping away from work and taking some deep breaths can help you feel more energised and focused. This can also help you be more present and focused when you are with your family, as you won't be bringing work stress into your home life.
Be Present
When you're with your children, make sure to be fully present. Put away your phone, turn off your computer, and focus on spending quality time with your kids. This is a crucial time to connect and bond with your children, and it will make a positive impact on your relationship with them. The same goes for when you're at work – be fully focused and engaged in your job so that you can get the most out of your time there. This can help you be more productive and feel more fulfilled in your work life.
Get Support
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Whether it's hiring a babysitter, asking a family member for assistance, or outsourcing some of your responsibilities, having support can help you maintain a better work-life balance. It can also provide you with much-needed time to recharge, focus on your work, or simply take a break.
Remember, finding a healthy work-life balance is all about making smart choices, and being intentional with your time.
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