As a mom of two, juggling work and parenting can be difficult. There are demands I need to meet from both parts of my life and sometimes it can get overwhelming. Thankfully, there are some strategies I’ve put in place to better manage my responsibilities as a parent and as an employee. Here’s what I recommend if I encounter someone who is struggling in this area.
1. Set Clear Priorities
It’s extremely important to set clear priorities. Take time to consider what matters most to you and allocate your time accordingly. You might find that work deadlines and family commitments overlap. By communicating your priorities to your employer and family members, you are more likely to get their support. Be clear about what is and isn’t negotiable. This will help you avoid unnecessary stress. Remember, work-life balance isn’t about doing everything. You should only focus on what truly matters to you.
2. Embrace Flexible Work Options
At this point in my life, I won’t work a job that doesn’t offer flexibility. Being able to work when I want and where I want allows me to better split my time between the kids and my job. Think about talking with your employer about the options available to you. You might be able to shift your working hours to better accommodate the needs of your family or work from home when your kids are sick. In the end, flexibility can be a game-changer for working parents.
3. Create a Family Calendar
I have a calendar where I keep track of everything going on. It lists play dates, doctor’s appointments, work meetings, school activities, and family events. We keep it on a shared Google Calendar as well as a physical copy on the fridge. This helps everyone stay up to date on what’s going on. It also makes it easy to see where things might overlap so that you can reschedule or plan accordingly.
4. Delegate Tasks
It’s easy to feel like you have to do everything yourself, but that’s not the case. Delegate some things to your partner or even coworkers to alleviate some of your stress. Talk to your partner about how they can better support you. Collaborate with team members at work to divide responsibilities in an effective manner. You might also consider hiring help, like a babysitter or clearing service. This allows you to focus on your priorities more.
5. Make Time for Yourself
Self-care often takes a backseat when you are a working parent. It’s crucial to make time for yourself, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. Take the time to do something you enjoy. Ultimately, caring for your own physical and mental health will put you in a better position to be more present for your family and your job.
6. Set Boundaries
Just like setting priorities is important, setting boundaries is vital as well. Make sure that you have communicated your work hours with your employer and stick to them. Unless an emergency comes up, you shouldn’t be answering work emails or phone calls during family time. You should also talk to your family about respecting your work commitments. These boundaries will help you make sure that neither work nor parenting takes up all your time.
7. Plan Quality Family Time
I’ll always say that quality time is the best way to ensure your family is getting the most from you. It will also help ease your guilt if you’re feeling down about how much you’ve been working. Plan regular activities like movie nights or game nights. Make it a priority to be present during these times and don’t do anything work-related. Quality over quantity really matters. So, make the most of the time you do have.
8. Learn to Say No
It’s important to be able to say no when you are trying to maintain a balance. Don’t overcommit to tasks or events that don’t align with your priorities. Politely decline extra work assignments or social invitations when your plate is already full. This will help you protect your time and focus on what really matters.
9. Seek Support
Finding a support system as a parent can be challenging, but it’s important. Reach out to family, friends, and parenting groups for support. Chances are, there is someone out there who has been in a similar situation. Listening to their experiences and advice can be reassuring. You might also consider seeking professional help, such as counseling or coaching. These tools can help you find better ways to cope with your stress.
Striving for Harmony
At the end of the day, there is no handbook to tell you how to best balance work and parenting. It’s an ongoing process that requires adaptability and patience. Following these guidelines can help you establish a routine that works for you and your family.