Life of an expat in Germany - How to manage work and family as a new mum
So many times I have been questioned how I can organize my time for my family, my career and now my start up. No one wants to live with the hectic moments of work life and home life. Do you? It is the most challenging time for a working mother to take care of the job and family simultaneously.
Balancing motherhood and work is hard! You are trying to raise good kiddos, keep food on the table, AND fulfill yourself in a career. It can be challenging, no doubt. BUT if you can incorporate a few tricks into your daily routine, you will be finding more “zen” time than you thought was possible!
Here are a few tips I have learned to creating a better work-life balance.
1. Understand what you value and your challenge
Your ultimate goal is to spend more time doing the things you love and less time doing the things you don’t. To do that you need to understand what it is that you love doing, the activities that tap into the person that you want to be. That way your time will be spent effectively.
Understand your challenge so you can be well prepared and permit yourself to take a break. A good sleep, a shopping time or a movie time would be good examples. It is essential for your mental wellbeing and the health of your relationship, that you are the best and happiest mommy you can be
2. Release the mom's guilt - and this is tough
In life, there should always be goals that you want to reach. Keep in mind there are things more important therefore remain humble and grateful. Your kids are no worse off if you are not at home all day. I know it is hard to release mom guilt but keep reminding myself is my tip to keep me happy.
3. Routines are key
Routines are so helpful when it comes to juggling all the hats we as mommas’ have. Morning routines, bedtime routines, daytime routines, you name it. Everyone is happier in the family when the routine is followed.
Routines add structure to the day and can help the kids predict how their day will go. Remember routines need to be flexible since unforeseen happens.
I have a morning routine and night routine that worked like a charm until the summer set in, and I fell off the schedule. So one thing I must do is regroup and get back into a productive working mom routine.
4. Ask for help
"Don’t be shy about asking for help. It doesn’t mean you’re weak it means you’re wise"
You know when you have so much to do that you end up doing nothing.
Don’t be ashamed to ask family and friends to babysit when you need a break so you can catch up on important tasks, cleaning, and sleep. Ok, no more sleeping! So, enlist the family while you can. You will find your life much easier. And you will find your family more close together.