Author: Katie Lemons / Source: Lifehack
Working moms have it tough. Being committed fully to work and family is an impossible task that working moms have to take on. It can be exhausting and thankless, being perceived as not fully present as an employee or a mother. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
It is possible to pursue a fulfilling full-time career while taking an active role as a mother, if you learn to find a balance that works for your life.
These tips will help working moms to make juggling the two sides a little bit easier.
1. Let go of the mom guilt
Mothers are so often judged for “abandoning” their children when returning to work full-time, while fathers are expected to go to work to “provide” for the family. Why is this sexist stereotype still so present in our seemingly progressive society?
Some women don’t have the option of being a stay-at-home mom, while others choose to go back to work because they don’t want to give up their career. Whatever the reason, deciding to be a working mom is a choice that should be admired, not judged or shamed. If you are feeling guilty about not being with your child all the time, it’s time to let it go.
Focus on the positive things that your work life is contributing to your family. Be confident that you are making the best choice for your whole family, including yourself, and your child will feel the extent of your love and understand your sacrifice.
2. Use time saving hacks
To get the most done in the least amount of time, use shortcuts and plan strategically.
Order your groceries online and use curbside pick-up or have them delivered to your house; this saves time AND ensures that you don’t forget anything.
Schedule conference calls during your commute and get quick errands done during your lunch break to free up more time during the week.
Prepare outfits and lunches the night before so that you can enjoy your morning instead of rushing to get out the door on time.
3. Find childcare providers that you trust
Knowing that your child is cared for is crucial to having peace of mind when you are at work. Find a daycare, nanny, or someone you know that you trust with your child.
A quality daycare should have flexible hours, a low teacher-to-child ratio, a clean and spacious environment, and up to date licenses.
For nannies, look for one with extensive experience and great references. Have at least one trial day to observe if it is a good fit and make all of your expectations clear from the get-go. If possible, keep constant contact throughout the day and ask for updates and photos of your little one.
Here are 9 ways you can try to outsource some chores:1
4. Maintain open communication with your manager
Being a working mom does NOT mean you will be a a less productive employee. However, changes will definitely occur.
Mothers are typically the primary parent when a child is sick or has an appointment, and is the one responsible for picking up the child after work; so working moms often need more flexibility in their schedules. But working moms are some of the most committed employees out there! From skipping lunch breaks to working on the weekends, these women do not use their child as an excuse to slack off.
The important thing is to make sure you communicate to your manager what your needs are, as well as how you will continue to do your job well. Hopefully, your manager will be understanding and appreciate your transparency and dedication to both your family and your job.
5. Reduce distractions and time wasters
Time is such a precious commodity when you are a working mom.
At work, be mindful of the time you are spending socializing with co-workers if it is affecting your productivity. Limit long lunch breaks and surfing the internet so that you can get the most out of your work time.
When at home, focus on your partner and your child rather than your…
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