Mothers: Work & Family

In our days, women want to become super moms trying to do everything- from being the best mothers to obtaining deserved professional recognition. They have come to realize though, that this situation is unsustainable: work 8 hours away from home and another 8 in it is more than anyone can bear. The stress and nerves can take over for many of them.

Even though all moms are different, following the full integration of women into the business world has made it increasingly difficult to balance work with children. Many of us feel frustrated, guilty and helpless at the lack of time to spend with our babies, about leaving their education in the hands of third parties, and of course not being able to participate and support them in their activities.

Different situations challenge us to choose the best for our children, but there are no rules to the most suitable arrangement. Today, many new mothers prefer to leave work and care for their children before going crazy trying to do everything and to avoid feeling guilty for not being good mothers. However, if you are currently working or considering returning to work, to successfully overcome the tensions between work and family, it is important that you follow some of these guidelines:

• Be less demanding. Recognize that you cannot do everything. Ask for help!• Establish priorities. Cleaning can wait … babies don’t keep!• Give your children your full attention.  Stop and really listen to all the things they have to say.
• Build on weekend and days off activities for them. Participate.• Oversee the education they receive at school. Oversee people who are dedicated to take care of them while you are busy.• Accept your children’s opinions, even if they are different from yours. They need to know that even if their views are different from their parents, they will always have your support.• Cultivate patience and a sense of humour; qualities that will make any type of problem more bearable.

Image courtesy of digitalart at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Remember, it is normal for parents to face conflict between work and family priorities. The way parents address this conflict is what will dictate positive or negative responses of all involved, yourself, your family, and your employer. Our behaviour will be determined based on our sense of control, the flexibility of our jobs and our family, and our willingness to enter a sound commitment to our loved ones. Remember, the essential core of a family is parenthood, and a family forms the core unit of our society. Balance is the key! Do not give up ♥