Here are six tips for working moms to set realistic expectations and manage their time effectively.
By Eboni Gee
Working moms are constantly juggling. It can be challenging to balance work, family, and personal responsibilities. Many moms feel the pressure to be perfect at everything. However, this way of thinking can lead to stress that seeps into all areas of life. All of these factors result in outcomes that aren’t based on realistic expectations and can cause self-doubt, frustration and unhappiness.
1. Plan Your Time Wisely
One effective way to manage your time is to make a list of priorities and focus on the most important tasks first. It’s also helpful to break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, or supplementary tasks. These are the pre-tasks that need to be done before completing the main task. For example, with one hour to get exercise, gather all belongings before the time starts. The goal is to maximize the time by being prepared before the time comes.. Plan the meals before going to the store. Prep the food before cooking. These things seem small, but by taking the time to prepare for the main to-do’s, you will be more efficient with the time. By planning time wisely, you can be more productive and accomplish more in less time.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Say No
It’s okay to turn down commitments if you don’t have the time or energy for them. Saying no can be challenging, but it’s essential to prioritize well-being and avoid overcommitting. This includes saying no to . Sometimes, it’s important to check how many things we are asking of ourselves too. Setting solid boundaries that you actually stick to can help focus the top priorities and avoid expending energy.
3. Don’t Try to Do It All
It’s okay to ask for help and delegate tasks. As a working mom, it’s crucial to focus on the top priorities. Everything can get done, just not always at the same time. There will be days when you smash all the tasks and days when you won’t. By setting realistic expectations, moms can avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed because the most important things can get done and what doesn’t can be fit in at another time on another day. This is why having a strategy for calendar management is key. When you don’t plan ahead you are executing in real time. This isn’t an efficient way of doing this because it doesn’t allow for prioritizing e what needs to be done. Once there’s a good handle on the time, it will be a little easier to plug and play when things need to shift to another day of time of the week.
4. Take Care of Yourself
As a working mom, it’s essential to take care of yourself. Make sure moms are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. If you aren’t taking complete care of the mind and body it’s unrealistic to expect it to sustain through the long-term. The days are long and the free time can be few and far between at times, but with a little planning there can be at least 30 minutes per day to spend caring for yourself. Don’t work so hard that you can’t enjoy it because the cost is health and wellness. Self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for well-being and productivity.
5. Find a Support System with other Working Moms
Having a support system is crucial for working moms. Whether talking to other working moms to get some ideas, joining a support group or enlisting family to share the chores and duties at home, find support by asking for what is needed. Having a community of people who understand what you’re going through can be very helpful. They can offer advice, support, and encouragement.
6. Celebrate Your Successes
Finally, it’s important to celebrate successes. Take time to acknowledge accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Small successes add up to great rewards. As a working mom, I’m also learning how to celebrate myself for all that I accomplish, heal and grow through. Celebrating successes can boost confidence and motivation and help you stay focused on your goals.