Being an entrepreneur & a mother

Being a mother is such a blessing. My kids mean the world to me.  But It tends to get hectic balancing working full-time and taking care of a household and extended family.

I constantly battled with feeling guilty and going back and forth in my head weighing out the pros and cons. Really and truly I know I only have good intentions for doing so, including the fact that I am a work-a-holic is what keeps me going. Managing the kids, taking care of the family, and having responsibilities of the home along with a career, work commitments and deadlines put a lot of pressure on me but somehow, I always find ways around it. Let’s just say I’ve had many trials and errors and a lot of experiences allowing me to evaluate what truly works for me and my family.

Throughout the years I have gone through finding different ways around it all. It really all comes down to compartmentalizing and not being ashamed to ask for help. It has always been important to be a professional and a good mother, but it is as important to be present in both roles, instead of stressing about failing.

I don’t give myself enough credit now that I think about it. I always Focus on the positives, remaining confident in my decisions concerning both aspects, including the kids. Knowing that in the moment as humans we all go through temporary emotion that we are entitled to feel but in the long run deep down we truly get a chance to reflect and can see that my kids will most definitely feel the extent of my love and understand my sacrifices if not now but in the future.

 

It took me 10 years to get my degree and get it right. I found that letting go of guilt was particularly important as I often felt as if I was abandoning them and was not giving them enough of my time. Kids tend to compare and look at similarities and differences to others which is normal human behaviour. They start to see not having something or differences as they are not enough, intelligent enough and or even kind enough. Work to help give them the best head start to life and to set them up for success.
Throughout the years I have learnt that Using time saving hacks and staying organized using calendars and lists to plan, helps a lot. Planning strategically, Budgeting and making a list of expenses, groceries, and chores. Also having a system of how or what needs to be paid and when. Having separate bank accounts for bills, spending money, savings so you can control.  Just knowing what goes where and when, who does what keeps everything flowing naturally. When everyone does their part, they are able too all be available at the relevant and important times, so we can bond as a family and do fun activities as well as being familiar with each other’s needs, necessities, and desires. So, everyone is happy, fulfilled as well as feel heard, loved, and listened too.
Communication, staying connected throughout the day. If I’m going to miss or be late to an older child’s event, give her something special in the morning, like a personal note, text message or leave her breakfast to take on her way. I also look into options for filming the event so I can watch it later and not miss a moment. During my breaks at work, I call my daughter and husband to check in. which leads me to having family days and setting up activities and personal days is very important. It contributes to bonding as well as understanding everyone’s individual interests as I try to go with what everyone is currently into and this doesn’t only show I’m in tune with them but that I’m willing to compromise. Making time for your kids is crucial, both during the week and on the weekends, to nurture your family dynamic and allow everyone to bond. In the end, it does not really matter what you do as long as you do it together.
Organize a weekly family game night, have a picnic in the backyard, or go bowling. take long walks with my family at nearby parks because it gives you a chance to be active and have great conversations. Trying to budget and cannot go to the cinema bring the cinema home to you. Go to your local store and get popcorn and snacks and put a movie on and enjoy.
Just showing your being creative shows interest which strengths the bond you have with your family as well as reassures them that your present and think of them even when your busy with work. Work doesn’t dictate your life or take from them which avoids your partner and kids feeling unloved or cared for which leaves a health balance.
Finding short cuts, planning ahead as well as strategically. Staying organised and planning ahead is key. Keeps your from feeling overwhelmed and gives your life structure.
Say yes to less and have me time. We need to take care of ourselves to do the absolute best for our children. That is what I found is the most effective way to juggle being a mother, business owner, employee, and still have a happy life. Still learning on knowing my limits- because when you are burnt out, both of your jobs will suffer. You can really have the best of both worlds.
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