Working Mums
Everyone talks about the joys of being a mother. We all know that mothers are awesome. How awesome? Let's take a look at what it takes to be a great mum while also maintaining a career or simply just working outside of home.
1. It's about putting the childs needs before your needs. Seems like the most natural thing right? This little, helpless person totally relies on you. It seems to be something that mothers don't think twice about. Particularly when their children are very young. This is essentially being self-less or at the very least less selfish. LOL
2. Multi-tasking will keep you sane. This is a given whether you are single or married. As a mum, you have to manage your days activities closely. Being organised helps. Being good at multi-tasking is essential. This is tied in with time management. Even relaxation should be somehow scheduled in order for you to have a balance between home and work. Planning of your diary, the childs play dates and your budget all need to be like a dance - go together with good harmony (as much as is possible).
3. Get help whenever possible. A grand-parent if they are available, a nanny, a trusted friend, time sharing with your spouse and many other options are a must to be able to maintain your career and care for your child. A support system of people to help with daycare as well as parenting helps to ligthen the load and ensures you don't feel that everything concerning the well-being of your child depends solely on you.
4. PRAY. Pray about everything and pray "always" - whenever you get a chance. I have read about great short prayers: "help me Jesus", "give me patience", "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me". The point is to rely on God for your ability to be a well rounded & therefore a successful woman.
5. Prioritize. Which means letting some stuff go all together, saying NO at times and always having boundaries [a topic in itself]. You set the priorities or if married, do it with your husband. They can be written down or simply be a mental note. To successfully prioritize takes discipline. Something that isn't usually easy. But with Gods help, it can be done.
These are in no way exhaustive and I am not an expert. I have asked many friends and observed many Christian women who are doing a great job and sometimes struggle to work and feel like they are good mothers. Understanding, Godly advice, prayer and patience help make the struggle easier and amplify the good times.