How to master being a full-time working parent
There are 24 hours in a day, therefore juggling a full-time job, raising a family, and managing home can sometimes be a struggle. It's a balancing act that I've faced personally and am consistently working on and improving.
With twin-boys at home at the age of loving adventure and chaos and needing all my attention and love at the same time, I've tried and tested all of the techniques and methods to help me keep my routine, work-life and family-life on track.
At Love Recruitment, we understand the unique challenges faced by working parents in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Here are a few essential tips to help working parents thrive in both their professional and personal lives:
- Flexibility
Flexibility is key for working parents. I'm fortunate that the team at Love Recruitment understand that family obligations can sometimes conflict with work schedules. It's important to discuss this with your employer/ future employers to ensure that flexibility can occasionally be allowed. This enables working parents to adapt their work hours or arrangements to accommodate family needs without compromising productivity or job performance
- Prep, prep, prep!
Being as prepared and organised is key! Try and block out some time at weekends for cleaning, organising and preparing for the week again. I spend time most evenings ensuring outfits are out, bags are packed and lunches (theirs, not mine!) are prepped! A small amount of time doing so sets the foundation for a positive and smoother week ahead.
- Self Care
Prioritising self-care is incredibly for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health. Working in the fitness industry has been a huge win as we're fortunate to be submerged in all things health & wellbeing. So, block out that time after/before work to go to the gym, book that beauty appointment, block out 30 minutes to read your book or try out a new hobby. Make sure you prioritise time to do something for you to improve overall well-being and resulting in enhanced productivity and job satisfaction.
- Establish boundaries
Establishing boundaries between work and family life is essential for maintaining harmony and reducing stress. I'm a huge fan of time-blocking and ensuring I am fully focused in that particular activity during that time. If I've just walked through the door at home, that is my time to be a fully present Mum and give my full attention to my children. Equally, at work I am fully focused on my projects/ tasks to make sure my time is being spent as effectively as possible. Clear boundaries foster a healthy work-life balance and ensure that both professional and personal responsibilities receive the attention they deserve.
- Lean on family and friends
Working parents don't have to navigate the challenges of balancing work and family life alone. Asking for support from friends and family members can provide valuable insights, encouragement, and practical solutions for managing the demands of both work and family. Additionally, exploring available resources such as childcare services, support groups, and professional networks can be an added valuable support.
- Effective Time Management
Prioritise tasks, set realistic goals, and utilise time-management tools and techniques to streamline workflows and optimize efficiency. Implementing strategies such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines, and delegating tasks can help working parents stay organised and focused!