In the past, rigid and traditional family roles tended to dictate that women stayed at home with children while men set off to work and bring home the money. Thankfully, we now live in a much more equal world that doesn’t impose strict roles onto mothers and fathers. The family structure varies greatly and in so many different ways that it can sometimes feel as if you have no clue whether or not what you’re doing is right for your kids. There’s no single model of how a family should operate and this can make it difficult to know that you’re on the best track. Here are just a few tips for working mums to make yours and your kids’ lives easier.
Care for Your Body
Having children takes its toll on the body. Even if your kids are adopted, being a parent is hard work that can wear you down over time. Exhaustion is the main culprit since having kids means being constantly vigilant of their safety and happiness which can tire you out both physically and mentally. This is why it’s so important for mums to take good care of their bodies. If you’re on your feet all day, invest in good quality footwear to keep your legs and spine healthy. If you use a screen every day, protect against dry eyes and the potential damage they can cause to your vision. Keeping yourself in good shape will make motherhood much easier.
Plan Ahead
A hectic work schedule can often get in the way of your life. Depending on your job, you might benefit from enforcing a strict routine that cannot be broken. You’ll be in a better position to book meetings for the future or take a weekend off to take your kids to the park. Let your kids know when to expect you home so that they won’t be disappointed if you have to work late. Setting a clear routine limits the chances of letting anyone down. This preserves the value of family time and lets you take your mind off any work worries you might have so you can enjoy time with your children.
Don’t Be Afraid to Delegate
Hire a babysitter or enlist the help of an after-school club if your work schedule is demanding. So long as you still make time to focus on your kids and show them that you care, there’s nothing to feel guilty about when making use of good childcare and external assistance.
Balance Work and Family Time
Just as bringing a toddler to the office would inevitably disrupt your work, bringing work to your home can interrupt valuable family time. Keep a clear line between these two aspects of your life in order to make the most out of each. You don’t want to be distracted by business while spending time with your kids as this can send a message that you are disinterested in their lives. It can seem difficult at first, but soon you’ll get into the habit of separating work and home life, meaning you’ll be better able to appreciate both.