There are only 24 hours in a day, right? Then, how in the world are you supposed to find time to raise amazing children, build an empire with your business endeavors and not drive yourself insane? As a mother, you’ve already signed up for the most selfless, time-consuming job ever created. Adding the extra stress of a career or running your own business is enough to make even the most ambitious woman filled with anxiety. After all, what you’re attempting to accomplish isn’t for the light at heart. You are embarking on the most insane, emotional, exhausting yet, self-fulfilling and rewarding journeys of a lifetime. If it’s any consolation, you’re not alone. According to recent statistics from www.dol.gov, “70 percent of women are actively employed with children under the age of 18”. As with most things, it isn’t always easy but, rest assured all your hard work and sacrifice is worth it in the end. Simply follow these steps and you will slay every goal you’ve ever set for yourself with ease:
Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself:
Listen, you will make mistakes, we all do. When you are tasked with juggling the kids and the office something can and will always fall by the wayside. The good news is, while you can mess up here and there, each day presents itself with a new chance to make corrections. With time, you will find it easier to better understand the needs of both your business and your family. Every mistake is nothing more than a learning opportunity and you simply identify when you need to adjust your actions.
There Is No “I” In Team:
Behind every truly successful woman, is a team of people who share her vision, passion, and work ethic. You have to ask yourself the following: Are you truly being resourceful or are you trying to be superwoman? Have you asked for assistance with the day to day activities for the children when your business needs are critical? Can you delegate work to your staff or teammates when the kids are in need of your attention? Are there ways to include the children in your work? Not only would this include them in your efforts but, it doubles as a teachable moment where they will learn hands-on about hard work and determination.
Put The Phone Down:
Create a time when you are truly not available. Use this time to detach from work and connect with your family or even take a moment for yourself. Every email isn’t urgent and every call doesn’t have to be answered. Your focus and mental stability will improve by ensuring you are taking time out to rest your brain and body. Just relax, you’d be surprised to see how well things can operate without your 24/7 attention.
The Children Will Be OK:
It’s easy to get consumed with guilt when you work all day and night. When dinner is always on the go and you can’t make every event. The great thing about children is that they are resilient. They are watching and learning from you during this time. They will only grow resentful if there is no progress on your end. If the sacrifice is a temporary inconvenience versus a permanent distraction. Include them when you can, make them a priority and express your gratitude to them for the sacrifices they are making as well while you work to provide a better way of life for them.
Go Hard or Go Home:
Look, as a mother and business woman you understand the importance of time. There is nothing worse than wasting time, efforts and energy when there are no tangible rewards for your efforts. Be mindful of every conference, event, seminar, class and opportunity that you are presented with. Ensure that everything you do aligns with your bottom line and end goal. Is the time you spend away for your family truly being used wisely? This will be the only true way to measure and ensure your success.
Organization Is Key
Oftentimes, we tend to feel most overwhelmed when things are happening outside of our control. The best way to feel less frazzled is to organize and then stick to the plan as much as possible. Meal planning is not only a great way to avoid the dreaded, “what do you want to eat” conversation but, it is a great way to add time in your day and a cost saver when grocery shopping. It can also be used as a great bonding time with the kids. A well-organized woman sets herself up for success by, scheduling breaks during the workday, setting reminders for important tasks on the calendar, keeping up with the children’s activity schedules or just having a documented plan of action for the day.
Do What You Love:
When you make a commitment to operate in your passion, you are truly fulfilling your purpose in life. If you are excited and driven by the work that you do, you will rarely find yourself dreading the tasks associated with it. It will be easier to see your life come together and less of a burden because you were meant to do what you love.
About the Author: @TheWiseGem is a Writer, Mother, and Businesswoman located in Atlanta, GA. You can follow her on IG|Twitter @TheWiseGem.
