1. Balancing Your Life
When you are a working mom, it is tough to not feel pulled in many directions at once. Finding a balance between work and all your household responsibilities is key to making it all work. Start by drawing out a schedule that shows when you are working and when you are spending time with your family. Make sure you communicate with both your work associates and your family when you are on and off the clock.
2. Finding Time
What mother hasn't wondered where the day goes? As a working mom, not only are you trying to attend to your children, clients and coworkers, but also all your household duties. Good time management will allow you to find the time for all these key parts of your life. To manage your time, try keeping a detailed calendar. Prioritize your tasks before you enter them on your calendar. Make sure to only schedule a reasonable number of tasks each day. Look for errands in the same area that you can lump into one trip. Be sure to schedule breaks for yourself, playtime with your child and time for pumping or nursing into your day if you have a baby.
3. Getting Past Separation Anxiety and Guilt
Some working mothers have feelings of guilt or anxiety for leaving their child while they are at work. They might worry about spending enough time with their child or feel badly about missing some milestones. If you have some work flexibility, try to find the balance of time at work and home that feels best. When you cannot be with your child, keep a photo of her with you. Make sure whatever time you have together is a great experience for both of you. Try asking your child to teach you something they've learned lately, or sing to your baby while rocking her in your arms. From that positive time together, she will know you care even when you are not there, and you will feel great.
4. Feel Comfortable With Your Childcare
Of course, while you are working, you want the best childcare possible for your child. Whether you have a nanny or a daycare, you want your children learning and thriving with a safe caretaker. To put your mind at ease, do your research. Be sure to interview the person, call references and have a background check completed. Lastly, always have a backup plan for childcare in case your child is sick or your caretaker cannot care for your child that day.
5. Get Plenty of Sleep and Exercise
Sleep and exercise are important to keeping you a stress-free mom. It is tempting to try and finish some work after your child goes to sleep. Try to get enough sleep at night, though. Avoid pushing back your bed time to sneak in some extra work. You will have more to offer your child and your work if you are well rested. The same goes for exercising. Make sure to devote time to exercising regularly and avoid cutting your exercise time short to do work. Exercise is important for keeping you healthy so you can be a good mom and a good worker.
