Image Courtesy Koidrake
We strive for that super elusive work- home balance where our Doormats are dust free and at the same time our office presentation is top grade,where we want fresh food on the table for the family and a cool jingle for a product launch on office front. And we all know it’s NEVER easy. A woman always wears multiple hats- wife, mom, a professional, a primary caregiver. And at times it becomes overwhelming to be in a juggling mode all the time.
To bring some semblance to all of this chaos, one needs to sit up and address certain issues so that in the long run, one does not look like a failure to the world and more importantly- to self.
Here are some practical tips for working moms so that the tightrope walk becomes tad bit easy for them and their loved ones.
Prioritize right
Draw a list of things you expect from your life- both short term and long term. Do you see yourself as a jet-setting corporate or a home diva or somewhere in between? Be realistic and save yourself a heart break.
Take your Economic and social standing into consideration
Once you know what exactly YOU want, we can move to other areas- do you want to work for job satisfaction or you want to work as it’s the need of the hour? If it’s the job satisfaction you are looking at, you can choose between work from home or office work, flexi hours etc. If not, see how you can make optimum use of the resources at hand so that if you need to step out of the house, it does not spell a doom on the home front. For example, if you are living with your in laws, can they look after some of the home duties while you are away?
Plan Ahead
Planning is everything. Being a mom means looking after every small needs of your kids especially if they are small. Make lists for everything- a to do list, grocery list, weekly menus etc. Set alarms in your mobile if required. However don’t fret too much if you miss out on few things.
Hire help
To delegate work is the art that every working woman should have down pat. After all we are born managers. There are certain things that are non-negotiable like spending quality time with your kids. A cook can cook for you, housekeeping can keep your home clean but only and only you as a mother can give that feeling of security and the sense of belonging to a child by giving him attention and love that is so important in growing years.
Don’t Fall for the guilt trap
In spite of all the careful planning and executing, you will be hit by some really awful days where nothing goes as planned. Like the day when your baby is running a high fever and you also have an important meeting at the workplace. Remember- it happens to the best of us.
Ask family members to pitch in
Not everything should be left to the maid. If the kids are of school going age, they should have a schedule and some basic tasks meted out to them like keeping their school bags in order and getting ready for the bed on their own at a fixed time.
Learn to let go
Things don’t always go as planned. Also you cannot keep everyone happy. So be kind to yourself and let go. Read this somewhere- “Sanity, clean house, well behaved children- only two are possible at a time. Choose wisely.
Make quality time really count
Be there 100% be it work or home. If spending time with kids, stay away from your laptop or phone and be attentive. Get involved in the things they have to say or the activity they want to do. This will keep you going on those days when you are too caught up with work.
Remember, the secret to multi-tasking is that it isn’t multitasking. It is just extreme focus and organization. It is not just rushing from one task to another but it’s also about the wholesome approach to life that matters.
Tell us in the comments section what’s your secret mantra for achieving work-home balance. Did you face initial hiccups or it was smooth sailing for you?
