5 ways to balance work and being a mom.
We've all had those mom moments when we feel guilty when work takes over precious time we could be spending with our children. Everyone has gone through it at some point or another. I've been a stay at home mom for many years and I've worked from home before, still do, and I know exactly how that feels.
I have worked outside the home and I know the mom guilt feeling as well. There has to be a balance for moms while juggling work and Homelife. If you work outside the home, the balance must be created with a set routine you create for yourself and your children. And that takes a few weeks to figure out a concrete routine and only you can figure that out yourself. It took me a while to set a routine for my kids and I when I was working outside the home.
Now, I'm working remotely and I'm going to have to figure out a new routine. Bare with me as I navigate through that and I will be keeping you guys updated when I do. So, the first step to balancing work and being a mom is to...
#1- Find a routine that fits you and your family's needs.
Routine. We all have them. Morning routine, night routines, etc. Creating a schedule to follow can take away the chaotic feeling we have sometimes and calms us down a bit. There's nothing wrong with schedule and routine! It can be good for us in many ways.
Now, finding your routine is a whole other topic. I think I had to draft out a schedule about 4 different times before figuring out something that worked for my kiddos and I. So, you've got to take the time to sit down and grab a piece of paper. Then, list everything you do or want to do step by step. Next, simply add times. That's how you create a routine.
The hardest part about following a routine is sticking to it and being on time. Creating it is fun, in my opinion though others would say it's not.
#2- Set timers and alarms.
Once you've gotten your whole routine sketched out, focus on being punctual. You need to conquer time management! And us moms are already naturally good at it. If you're having a hard time making your routine work regarding time management, then it's time to focus and tweak your routine a bit. A routine is supposed to help you, not stress you out. Setting timers and alarms will really help you out.
If my alarms/timers aren't on, I will lose track of time. And that's not necessary! Be sure to focus and conquer time management. It's a skill you need for life.
#3- Don't be afraid to change your routine- two or three times.
It takes a while to find the perfect routine and sometimes, things change. And when that happens, map out a different routine even if it's just for that day. What helps me a lot is using my personal planner system.
Using a daily planner helps me be able to map out my day, with any changes that may be involved. If you're a digital mom, even better. I'm not that tech savvy, I'm just an old schooled paper planner. Do whatever works for YOU. And don't get frustrated because your routine isn't working out.
Life happens and not everyday can be a perfect one. Just focus on the positives and having a great day instead of being negative and grouchy when things do not go as planned.
#4- Learn to laugh at yourself.
Isn't it hard to work outside of the home and things just go wrong? All of a sudden, your toddler is sick and you've got to call in. Or your babysitter calls in sick or suddenly goes on vacation. Maybe you're working from home with a sick kiddo or you're suddenly interrupted because you've got to pick them up from school. SO many things can go wrong daily and you've got to learn to laugh at these things.
Trust me, your kids aren't having the best time either! So, learn to manage your stress and realize that as a mom you've got a huge responsibility that comes first; your children. And they're already a full time job! You're just working your second job :) So, stay calm and mom on.
You can do this, we all can. It just takes a lot of patience on our part as mothers to make things happen. And don't forget; lots of praying to God to help us get through it all.
#5- Stay positive and find the time to spend quality time with your kids.
What did we all want as children growing up? Well, we just wanted to spend time with mom and dad! And there is nothing wrong with that. What you can do is draft up a little list of things you'd like to do with your kids to spend quality time with them.
You can create a bucket list of a list themed just for holidays. We have a Holiday list too! Try to check those off one by one and make sure to take pictures to document the precious memories that are sure to follow.
And spending quality time doesn't have to be all fancy or memorable either. Sometimes, I just pop some popcorn and pick a movie from our movie list to watch together. Even a simple park day will do! Just make sure to spend that time with your kids because it's not just all about work.
I hope this post has helped you feel more confident about spending quality time with your kiddos and balancing work and home life.
Until next time,
xoxo,
mrsplanahead
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