Many women feel that having a family will mean they have to sacrifice their careers. In the past, that was probably the case. But thanks to advances in HR, technology, the law and attitudes, many women are sustaining successful careers whilst raising happy and healthy children.
But it’s not easy.
Some mothers find it more of a challenge than others. Depending on their child, the job they have, and the level of support they have access to. Even if your baby never sleeps, your partner works away, and your job is highly stressful, there are some tips to follow that will help to keep you sane as a working mother.
1) Stay well
Keeping fit and well is so important for staying sane as a working mother.
We aren’t talking about running 10K every day. Although if that’s your thing, go for it!
Keeping your mind and body well is essential.
If you’re ill, or depressed, or feeding your body with food that’s doing more harm than good, you will not be at peak performance. And you need to be at the top of your game.
You need to sustain your energy levels and immune system. Eat a diet rich in nutrients and low in sugar to give you the energy you need to carry you through a busy day. If you indulge in the midweek tipple, consider stopping. Alcohol leads to reduced sleep quality, and a weakened immune system. Not to mention the hangovers!
Make sure you are exercising regularly, even if it’s 20 minutes of squats and star jumps in the living room each day. Exercise is like a magic pill for your immune system, sleep, mental health, organs, skin, hair…the list is endless.
2) Prioritise
Trying to do it all can be stressful. So, don’t be afraid to say no to things.
If you have 40 thousand things to do in one day, think about which are the most important. Say no to the rest.
Don’t agree to things that add more pressure in your life. Don’t agree to join the PTA, make cupcakes for the office party, or organise a trip out with the girls, including hotels and trains. Unless you really, really want to and genuinely have the time.
It’s ok to say no. Especially if saying no leaves you more time to chase up potential sales, put your children to bed, or spend time with your partner.
What’s your priority in all of this?
3) Use the resources available to you
If people offer to help, accept it. Don’t be afraid of asking for it. After all, it takes a village to raise a child.
Rope your parents, aunts and uncles, siblings, friends in as often as possible to help if you need it. This article gives some fantastic tips on how to accept help without feeling guilty or frustrated.
Also think about what other resources and opportunities are available to you.
Do your grocery shopping online, whilst making your morning coffee. Join a gym with a free creche. If your children have swimming lessons, dance classes, or a sports match, take your laptop so you can work whilst they enjoy their activity.
If you are working from home, you can utilise technology such as VPNs, videoconferencing, and cloud document hosting to stay productive.
4) Give yourself a break
Giving your child your undivided attention all waking hours does not make you a good parent. Not giving them your undivided attention does not make you a bad parent.
A child needs love, encouragement and nurturing. That doesn’t mean you have to play hide and seek 24/7. As this article argues, a child needs to be bored to let their imagination develop.
It’s ok to let them read a book, colour in, or play by themselves, whilst you catch up on work.
A child also needs a stable home and a good role model.
By working, not only are you financially providing for them. You’re showing that having a career and ambition is a good thing; normal and achievable.
So, don’t beat yourself up for not spending all the time you feel you ought to with them. Set aside quality time to spend together when you aren’t distracted with phone calls, emails, and work stress.
Do you have any tips for staying sane as a working mother?
Disclosure: This is a contributed post
Comments 1
Great post!