As a working mum, it is hard to create a work-life balance for yourself when you’ve got your kids to think about at home and a career to manage. Whether you’re a first-time mum or at your third kid, it doesn’t always get easier.
From sending kids to school, attending work meetings on time, then rushing back home to cook dinner, your time is stretched. Yet, you might still feel that you aren’t doing enough.
The pressure faced by working mums is real, but you have to let go of your guilt in order to find a healthy balance between the two. Here’s how you can try lightening your load.
Communicate with your employer
Covid-19 has shown us new ways of working remotely with the help of technology. Employers are less wary about flexible arrangements, making it easier for you to broach the subject. If you do need to work but can’t commit to normal hours, speak to your boss about part-time work instead.
Set realistic expectations with your boss too and be practical about how much you can take on. If your employer isn’t flexible, try discussing with your partner about dividing more responsibilities at home, or perhaps find a workplace that is better suited to you.
Remember to switch off
While it’s hard to switch off from work and turn your mummy hat on, it is important to learn how. Otherwise, you might experience burnout.
Set a time each day where you put aside work and be fully focused on enjoying time with your family. Let your colleagues know that you won’t be responding to work emails at that time. Setting boundaries will help you manage your time better as well as others’ expectations of you.
Plan ahead
Be it family fun, date nights with your spouse, or catch-ups with friends, remember to plan ahead to schedule in your fun. It will help you know what your day looks like, weeks in advance, and avoid overcommitting yourself.
Meal prepping on weekends with your family can also help you save time cooking on weekdays.
Share the work
You might be a super mum, but there’s no shame in sharing the work. If you need to, delegate some tasks to your colleagues, offering to mentor them instead.
It is also important to openly communicate with your spouse about what housework can be shared and divide kids’ events between the two of you. If you’re both working, consider sending your kids to childcare if they require supervision.
It is also ok to ask for help from your family sometimes. They will surely appreciate some grandparent/auntie/uncle bonding time.
Don’t forgo self-care
You can’t take care of others if your energy bank is exhausted, so “me time” is just as important too. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, make time for something you enjoy doing by yourself like taking an exercise class or having a monthly spa session.
Your mind, body, family and colleagues will thank you later.