There’s no doubt about it: Moms work hard. Whether they work outside of the home or not, most moms take on the bulk of the household workload, including cooking, cleaning, laundry and organizing. Most moms are the true matriarchs of the family, keeping everyone happy, healthy and on schedule. Moms are the glue that keeps the family together. But many moms also have obligations outside of their families, including a career, social life and community involvement. It is possible to have it all, moms, but it takes a bit of planning, organization and prioritizing.
Negotiate Flextime
If possible, check into your employer’s flextime plan. If you can show specifically how you can get the same amount of work done by putting in fewer office hours, you might be able to work out a schedule that allows you to be there for your kids when they need you the most. Working at home might be an option, or perhaps you could come in after you drop the kids at school and work a little later in the evening. Many companies will be flexible with you, but it is your job to sell yourself to your employer.
Stay Organized
Organizing your house, your schedule and your routines can have a huge impact on your time. Designate specific areas of the house for specific things, such as coats and shoes, homework and backpacks, mail and car keys, and anything else you need access to on a daily basis. This can eliminate the stress of getting everyone out the door on time each morning.
Prioritize
Keep a daily list of your top priorities. Include your children’s activities and events, one or two household chores and important work deadlines. If you narrow it down to a manageable list each day, you won’t feel overwhelmed or stressed about your to-do list.
Stick to a Schedule
Household chores alone can feel overwhelming. If you implement a schedule to complete one or two small tasks each day, you will feel less anxious about keeping things in order. Enlist the help of your kids as well. Even young children can help pick up toys, make their beds or cook dinner. You might devote the half hour before dinnertime to chores. Crank up the music and have fun with it. Schedule specific time for tasks during the day, so you are sure to focus on work during work hours, cleaning during cleaning time or playing with your kids during that important down time.
Relax
When life gets too busy and overwhelming, it can affect the health of everyone in your family. Everyone needs time to unwind on a daily basis, and your kids want to feel valued and loved. Make it a priority to spend quality time with your family every day. Maybe it’s that hour before bed, or maybe it’s right after school. Connect with each of your kids at least once a day. It’s also important to give yourself down time throughout the week. Curl up with a book, exercise, or take a hot bath at the end of the day. Make this time a priority, even if you can only devote 15 minutes to yourself each day.
Mothering is a full time job in itself. eNannySource.com can help mothers find quality childcare, making more time for their own needs.