In today’s world, it’s increasingly challenging to balance work and home life as a career mum. It is double the weight when you are an independent mum. Unlike other families with two incomes, a single mum only has one option which is to earn money however way it is to continue living, to provide meals on the table.
Whether out of necessity or choice, juggling career and family responsibilities can be demanding. However, it is achievable with the right strategies in place.
Ultimately, the decision to continue working has its advantages. It saves you from worrying about re-entering the workforce later and enables you to build your own retirement funds. It keeps your sanity by being an active member of the community other than your child and family. It keeps your mind broader and your heart bigger. Read my other blog on Embracing Equity for working mum.
To maintain a happy equilibrium between work and home, the following scheduling and planning techniques can be helpful.
Plan and Schedule
Most working mums use specific scheduling and planning habits to stay on track. A fixed schedule that suits your preferences is essential.
Here are some hacks:
1. Plan mornings
Try completing some of your morning tasks the night or a few days before. Allocate enough time to get your children ready for the day if they’re too young to do it themselves. If possible, sit down for breakfast as a family before commencing your daily commitments.
2. Schedule events
Schedule your after-work events in a planner. This will ensure that everything has its place, and no important task is forgotten. Play dates, grocery shopping, and other errands can be scheduled as well.
3. Be flexible
Acknowledge that everything won’t always work out perfectly. If something doesn’t go according to plan, reschedule it for another day. With so many tasks to juggle, keeping a flexible schedule can help alleviate stress levels. To me, having a schedule means that I could be flexible enough because I know my capacities are instead of just thinking too busy to do anything.
Stay Involved
One of the most significant concerns of working mums is that they may not be involved enough. Here we go again: mum’s guilt. Please work on the mom guilt workbook. We need to acknowledge the guilt to make peace with it and find the solution around it. Working mums, this is our mantra: Quality over Quantity. Dedicating quality time to your children is crucial to staying connected with them. Although you may not be present every minute, you can still make a big difference in their lives. I attend school’s event once a term to ensure that I am involved with his community.
When you return home from work, engage in activities that you’ll all enjoy. While your children may want some independent playtime, you can demonstrate that you care by participating in family games or other activities. Mealtimes are also an excellent opportunity to connect with them. Our rule in the house is no phone during mealtime. Sometimes, we break it by eating dinner at the couch in front of TV on Friday night. Try not to be so rigid.
Take Breaks
It is essential to plan breaks to recharge your batteries. You deserve “me time” occasionally, and downtime can help relieve stress. After the children have gone to bed, you could read a book, focus on your relationship with your partner, or participate in a relaxing activity. Please read on the blog on 8 ways to unwind for working mums.
Nurture Your Relationships
Spend one-on-one time with each family member. Even during life’s hectic times, don’t forget to prioritise your relationship with your loved ones. Individual attention can help you understand your children better and improve your relationships. As I don’t have a partner, people may say it is harder or easier, it is all relative opinions. I don’t mind it as I divert my thoughts into something more positive than feeling lonely and feeling victimized. I usually try to connect with my friends or families, as they are my rocks. I am right here in the right place and at the right time.
Being a career mum is a remarkable accomplishment.
Although life can be chaotic at times, these strategies can help you maintain a healthy balance between your work and home life.
Be well.
