My son starts pre-school in September (whaaaat! How did that happen?!) Over the last year or two, I have been slowly increasing the time for me and my work, and it’s been interesting to see how the balance shifts and moves (on a daily basis!)
My boy is my absolute priority and I make no bones about it with my clients and prospective clients. I’m aware that this may put some people off working with me, as they desire to be the main focus, but the right people – the people I want to be working with and supporting – will appreciate the values I hold, and will be as keen to support me as I am to support them.
Being family foscussed does not mean I am any less passionate about my work and my clients, it does not mean that I work less hard or am less dedicated, and it certainly does not affect my experience and knowledge.
It is #ParentsDay this week, and I wanted to shout out to all the working parents, who find themselves in a perpetual juggling act, trying to keep all the plates spinning whilst we ride the rollercoaster! It’s not easy, the demands of careers collide with the responsibilities of nurturing our families, and some days it can feel like wading through mud trying to make progress in either side!
For anyone else currently struggling (sorry, juggling, I mean juggling!) we’re sharing some practical strategies to help maintain balance:
- Prioritize and Set Realistic Goals:
- Understand that achieving perfect balance is unlikely. Instead, set realistic expectations for both work and family life.
- Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Some days, work may take precedence; other days, family needs come first.
- Establish Clear Boundaries:
- Define work hours and stick to them. Avoid checking emails or taking work calls during family time.
- Communicate your boundaries to colleagues and supervisors. Respectfully decline non-urgent requests outside work hours.
- Negotiate Flexible Work Arrangements:
- Take advantage of flexible working. Can you adjust your hours or work remotely?
- Advocate for yourself and your family’s needs. Remember, it’s not a sign of weakness to seek flexibility—it’s a sign of strength.
- Quality Time vs. Quantity of Time:
- Focus on quality interactions with your children. Be present during playtime, meals, and bedtime. Don’t try and juggle emails and social media at the same time.
- Prioritize activities that matter most to your family. Skip the guilt over missing minor events; cherish the meaningful ones.
- Look After Your Well-Being:
- Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Prioritize sleep, exercise, and mental health.
- Delegate tasks at home and work. You don’t have to do it all—seek support from family, friends, or hired help.
- Seek Support:
- Build a reliable support network. This one can be a bit more tricky if you’re an expat and don’t necessarily have the support of grandparents and other family members, however neighbours, friends and fellow parents can be lifelines.
- Connect with other working parents. Share experiences, tips, and encouragement.
- Embrace Progress, Not Perfection:
- Accept that some days will be chaotic. It’s okay to drop a plate occasionally.
- Celebrate small victories—a successful presentation at work or a heartfelt conversation with your child.
Please don’t think I am sharing these thoughts because I have is sussed. I experience major mum guilt every single day, and constant feelings of inadequacy and self doubt – so much more than I ever did before having a child. We are all working it out, and everyone’s situations are different. BUT, none of us is alone, and if you are brave enough to speak out and share your challenges and fears, you’ll soon see that there are many others feeling the same way. Hopefully by talking about it more – and louder – support will increase for working parents and work-life balance will no longer be an aspiration but a reality for working parents everywhere.
