- Create a list of goals and prioritize personal and professional responsibilities.
- Set a specific time for work and family life, as well as occasional breaks.
- Delegate tasks to free up time and ask for help from babysitters or play-based childcare.
- Consider flexible working arrangements with employers and build professional networks for job opportunities.
- Most importantly, practice self-love and celebrate successes.
Being a mother and building a career in today’s world can be a daunting task. Many women find themselves stuck between their desire to advance in their professional lives and their responsibilities as parents. However, it’s important to know that balancing motherhood and career growth is possible — it just requires some organization, time management, and a few strategic pivots. Here are some effective strategies for balancing motherhood and building a career in the modern era.
Set Priorities
As a parent, you have myriad responsibilities that require your attention. Being a career-oriented mom means prioritizing what is most important in both your personal and professional life. Here’s how you can do this efficiently:
Make a List of Goals
As a career-oriented mom, it is essential to have clear and specific goals in mind for both your personal and professional life. Taking the time to formulate these goals can help you decide which tasks will take precedence over others.
Once you have established your priorities, create a plan of action that outlines how you will achieve them. This will make it easier for you to stay focused and on track.
Create a Schedule
A well-planned schedule can make a world of difference when it comes to balancing motherhood and work. Set a specific time for work and another for family time. This way, you can avoid mixing the two and plan your day accordingly. Remember to take occasional breaks to recharge and focus on other priorities.
Delegate Tasks
Dividing the workload between family members can help you reduce your daily obligations and free up more time for yourself. Delegating tasks such as grocery shopping, meal prep, and cleaning can lighten your load and give you more time to pursue other interests. This can also be applied at work — asking your colleagues or team members to help with projects can be a great way to improve efficiency and get things done faster.
Ask for Help
Having a great support system is crucial for working mothers. This will allow you to focus on your work without worry and also give you a much-needed break from your daily routine. Here are some ideas:
Enlist a Babysitter
When it comes to finding the time to balance motherhood and building a career, enlisting a babysitter can be a great help. Not only can it provide a much-needed respite from the daily grind of looking after children, but it can also free up more time to focus on professional development. Babysitters can offer flexible hours, so it’s crucial to find one who will work with your schedule.
Consider Play-based Childcare
Play-based childcare can be an effective option for mothers trying to juggle work and motherhood. Unlike traditional daycare centers, an effective play-to-learn school focuses on the importance of learning through play. This type of program provides children with a stimulating environment that encourages exploration and curiosity while helping them develop important skills such as problem-solving, communication, and collaboration.
Ask For Flexibility at Work
Many employers are willing to offer flexible working hours if it benefits both parties. This can be an effective way to strike a balance between motherhood and career growth while still making sure that all tasks are completed in a timely manner.
Build Your Network
Networking is an essential part of building a career; it can help you find opportunities, gain insights, and create relationships with other professionals. Attend industry conferences and events to expand your network and build relationships.
You can also join online communities such as LinkedIn groups, where you can connect with other professionals in your field. This is especially useful for stay-at-home moms who don’t have the time to attend physical events.
If possible, take advantage of job-sharing opportunities to reduce the time you spend away from your family while still advancing in your career. However, be sure to discuss these options with your employer before committing.
Be Kind to Yourself
Remember that you are doing the best you can as a mother and a professional. It’s okay to make mistakes, feel overwhelmed, or even take a break when needed.
Prioritizing your health and well-being is also essential. For instance, taking time for exercise, relaxation, or a hobby can help you stay energized and focused on achieving your goals.
Furthermore, remember to celebrate your successes and give yourself credit for your progress. Don’t forget that self-love is paramount — if you are kind to yourself, your family will benefit as well.
Balancing motherhood and building a career requires hard work, dedication, and some planning. Creating a schedule, setting priorities, asking for help, building a network, and being kind to yourself are all strategies that can aid in this process. With some balance and persistence, it’s possible to raise a family and build a successful career, paving the way for other working mothers to follow in your footsteps.
