10 Life Hacks for Working Mums to Make Life Easier
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Introduction:
Being a working mum can be a juggling act, balancing the demands of a career with the responsibilities of motherhood. It's a challenging role that requires effective time management, organisation, and self-care.
I have only just begun my journey as a working mum and although at the moment I am doing most of my work from home, it does get a bit tricky at times to juggle and I am realising that preparation, delegation and just being fine with things not going to plan is my best start to balance. Of course a list of life hacks is handy and I understand that they may not all work for you because if I am honest, I don't do them all (anyone else find it hard to ask for help?) but I am a fan of trying seeing things in an orderly fashion.
What do working Mums Struggle with?
Good question! and the answer is not simple as there is a range of things that all Mums struggle with, from guilt that they are not there, mental and physical exhaustion, the pressure of societal expectations and just a lack of time.
Is it normal to feel overwhelmed as a working mum?
Look, it is normal to feel overwhelmed as a Mum at any time but YES with the added stressors as we said above you can definitely feel overwhelmed. That’s why it is important to have strategies or life-hacks to make this time easier.
10 Life Hacks to Make Life Easier
To help make life a little easier for all the amazing working Mums out there, here is a list of ten life hacks that can help streamline your daily routine and reduce stress. These simple yet effective strategies will enable you to find a better work-life balance while maintaining your sanity.
1. Establish a Morning Routine:
Start your day on the right foot by establishing a morning routine that works for both you and your family. Wake up a little earlier to have some personal time, meditate, or exercise before the household wakes up. This will help you feel more centred and prepared for the day ahead.
2. Plan and Prep Meals in Advance:
Meal planning and prepping can save you significant time and stress during the week. Set aside some time on weekends to plan your meals for the week, create a shopping list, and prepare ingredients in advance. Consider using a slow cooker or Instant Pot for quick and easy dinners.
3. Utilise Technology and Planners:
Leverage technology to simplify your life. Use smartphone apps and digital calendars to keep track of appointments, set reminders, and stay organised. Explore meal planning apps, grocery delivery services, and online shopping platforms to save time on mundane tasks. Need to write things down?? Get a simple planner and write out your week, get one for the fridge so everyone can see. Sometimes just getting it out of your head helps so much.
4. Delegate and Outsource:
Recognise that you don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate household chores and tasks to your partner, older children, or consider hiring help for cleaning, gardening, or babysitting. Outsourcing certain tasks can free up your time and reduce your mental load.
5. Establish Support Networks:
Connect with other working moms and establish support networks. Join local parenting groups or online communities where you can share experiences, seek advice, and offer support. Collaborating with other moms can provide valuable insights and a sense of camaraderie.
6. Set Realistic Expectations:
Let go of perfectionism and set realistic expectations for yourself. Understand that it's impossible to do everything flawlessly, and it's okay to prioritise and make compromises. Focus on what truly matters and give yourself permission to ask for help when needed.
7. Create a Dedicated Workspace:
Whether you work from home or have an office job, creating a dedicated workspace can increase productivity and help separate work and home life. Designate a specific area in your home as your office and ensure it is well-organised, comfortable, and free from distractions.
8. Schedule Quality Family Time:
Make quality time with your family a priority. Schedule dedicated family activities and stick to them. It could be a weekly game night, a movie marathon, or a fun outing on the weekends. Disconnect from work during these moments and be fully present with your loved ones.
9. Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being. Find time for self-care activities that recharge and rejuvenate you, whether it's reading a book, taking a long bath, practising yoga, or indulging in a hobby. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup.
10. Learn to Say No:
Don't be afraid to say no when you feel overwhelmed or when a commitment doesn't align with your priorities. Prioritise your time and energy for what truly matters to you and your family. Learning to set boundaries and saying no will help reduce stress and create more space for what brings you joy.
Does being a working mum get easier?
As children grow older it does change for parents, “while the demands of work and family don’t diminish, they become better equipped at integrating the two and more forgiving of their missteps. They become skilled multitaskers and time managers, laser-focused on what has to get done both at work and at home.” Dana Greenberg and Jamie J. Ladge, Harvard Business Review So there is light at the end of the tunnel!
Conclusion:
Being a working mum comes with its unique challenges, but with these ten life hacks, you can make your life a little easier and find a better work-life balance. Remember, it's not about achieving perfection, but about finding strategies that work for you and your family. By prioritising self-care, seeking support, and streamlining your routines, you can thrive both personally and professionally as a working mum. And again I stress, do what works for your family, you know them the best. You are amazing Mama!!
I would love to hear your experience as a working mum or your life hacks that work for you and your family. Post a Comment below or contact me at [email protected]
