Time Management Tips for Working Moms
Posted by Dr. Della Parker on April 16, 2019
Let’s be honest, being a mom and having a career is like having two full-time jobs. There just aren’t enough hours in the day! You have to make the most of every moment, and finding a few spare ones to look after yourself can be difficult to say the least. There are a few quick tips that you can follow, though, to take some of the pressure off and make sure that, while taking care of everything else, you have time to tend you your own needs as well.
Get enough sleep. Let’s lead with the most important one. More than anything else, you need to prioritize your sleep. Without proper sleep, you won’t be able to accomplish the tasks you need. You’ll feel a drag all day and ultimately waste time if you’re under-rested. Schedule sleep like any other activity and go to bed at bedtime so you can function the next day. Be sure to enforce your kids’ bedtimes, too. Getting them in the habit now will make both your and their lives easier.
Establish sane work hours. With any job, you must establish set work hours. When taking on a new role or new job entirely, take the time to sit down with your employer and confirm an alignment of expectations for your work hours. Of course, life commitments and job projects will change over time, so be sure to check in periodically to make sure that expectations have not changed. That way, if your boss typically calls or emails after hours, you can decide whether you’re available or not.
Learn that it’s okay to say “No.” Know your limits and don’t overcommit to a lot of events. You have to gaurd your time carefully. It is not necessary to attend every PTA meeting, chaperone all field trips, or take on additional work projects. Saying no can be tough, but it is a skill that frees up time. Additionally, watching you be more firm can help your children learn to establish boundaries.
Set attainable daily goals. When writing a to-do list, don’t write down things that are impossible for you to accomplish. Some of the more ambitious goals will have to wait for a special time. Make your daily goals realistic enough to complete.
Avoid multitasking too much. You will perform better when you allow yourself to focus your attention to the task at hand. You can’t always be worried about dinner plans when you’re trying to work. If you’re helping your child with homework, don’t also try to think about chores and grocery lists.
Let go of perfection. Perfection is a myth. It is not attainable. Rather than obsessively cleaning an already clean house, or working towards impossible ideals of perfection, figure out a more practical use for your time.
Stop taking on other people’s tasks. Do you find yourself often saying, “Never mind, I’ll do it myself”? Cut that habit immediately. There is no reason for you to shoulder both your own responsibilities and others’. Let others manage their responsibilities themselves. This includes your children, spouse, and colleagues.
Allow yourself to delegate. Related to the point above, it is crucial to learn to know when to let someone else handle a task. Relinquishing control is tough, but it’s also necessary to allow others to pitch in. This doesn’t make you less, it means you are making the most of the help you have.
Make regular appointments with your doctor to stay happy and healthy. Of course, it is always important for moms to remember to keep regular appointments with their doctor. At Stellar Health and Wellness, we are moms and know how much work moms do. If you are a mom and want to focus on your wellness, call 503-344-6631 today for a free consultation!