Mums: The Quintessential Superheroes of Our Times
In this thing called life, is there really such a thing work life balance? To balance your work and family life, mums embroider the most vibrant threads, weaving resilience, love, and unparalleled commitment into the fabric of our families. Their role transcends the mere act of caregiving; it is a multifaceted performance where they juggle the demands of domestic life, their careers, and their personal aspirations with a grace that often goes unnoticed.
This article seeks to illuminate the strength and dedication of these incredible women who manage not only to take care of their households and every family member but also to excel in the workforce, contribute to government, spearhead businesses, helm charities, and still carve out time to play with their children and attend to their wellbeing. We don’t have children, we are fur mamas, however I have been privileged to witness some very special mums in the world of business as clients and as mentors.
The Herculean Task of Balance Your Work and Family Life
It is no small feat to balance the myriad of responsibilities that come with motherhood and professional life. This delicate balance demands a healthy routine, an organised schedule, and a robust support system from family members. The path is not devoid of challenges, yet it is traversed daily by countless mothers who strive to provide for their families while nurturing their careers.
Guilt, an all-too-common companion for many new mothers venturing back into the workforce, is often rooted in fear. It’s vital to recognise this emotion for what it is—a hindrance rather than a reflection of reality. The pursuit of a harmonious work-family balance should never be thwarted by fear.
Strategies for Success
Lose the Guilt: Instead of succumbing to guilt over time spent away from your children, focus on the benefits your job brings to your family. Financial stability allows for educational opportunities, memorable experiences, and the occasional indulgence, all of which contribute to a fulfilling family life. Embracing your choices and focusing on what truly matters can elevate you to the status of a successful career mum.
Discuss Childcare Options: For those times when you cannot be present, exploring childcare options becomes essential. Whether it’s enlisting the help of family, finding reputable nannies or babysitters, or leveraging corporate day care facilities, identifying the right support is crucial. A well-thought-out list of requirements will streamline this process, ensuring your children are cared for in a manner that aligns with your values and will help you to balance your work and family life.
Stay Organised: In the whirlwind of modern life, organisation is your lifeline. Utilising tools like Google Calendar can simplify scheduling by color-coding activities for easy visualisation and sharing among family members. This not only helps in keeping track of logistical details but also in integrating work commitments seamlessly into your family life.
Plan Ahead: The adage “fail to prepare, prepare to fail” holds particularly true for busy mums. Nightly preparation—from packing lunches to planning outfits—can transform chaotic mornings into serene starts. Sharing domestic responsibilities with your partner is also key in maintaining balance and ensuring that both of you are actively contributing to household management.
Know Your Work Options: Familiarise yourself with your employer’s policies on flexible working arrangements. Understanding what accommodations are available can help you tailor your work life in a way that supports your family commitments.
Create Family Activities: Cultivating family traditions strengthens bonds and provides cherished memories for your children. Whether it’s a weekly movie night, a board game evening, or a special breakfast, these moments are invaluable. It’s equally important to reserve time for your relationship, keeping the flame of romance alive.
Have Time and Space for Yourself: Lastly, in the quest to balance your work and family life, don’t neglect your own wellbeing. Allocating time for self-care activities is essential for mental and emotional health. Whether it’s indulging in a hobby, enjoying a quiet glass of wine, or simply revelling in moments of tranquillity, remember that self-care is not selfish—it’s necessary, fill your cup!
The journey of a working mum is both challenging and rewarding. It requires a blend of strength, flexibility, and creativity. By adopting a strategic approach to balance, embracing support systems, and prioritising self-care, mums can navigate the complexities of modern life with confidence. Let us celebrate and support these superheroes among us, for they are the architects of our future, crafting it with love, determination, and an indomitable spirit.
Know a hero mum who does it all? Works, keeps house, business owner? Share this with them and see if they would like to write for us….We’re always looking for super heroes.
