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Six challenges of being a working mother

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 Your whole definition of self-care tends to change as you start working (Shutterstock)

Including more women in the workforce has been one of the most revolutionary changes the world has witnessed. In the past, women were only believed to be good in the kitchen and babysitting while their husbands worked.

Turns out women could do it all albeit with proper planning and assistance from a spouse or work assistant.

As they take over influencing with their social media wits and skills, more and more women are becoming financially dependent and living comfortable lives. But don’t let the glitter fool you.

There are many challenges working women face, especially working moms. Let us take a look at a few.

i.The work-parenting balance

Every parent is expected to prioritize their kids. And getting steady employment is a proper way to secure their future.

But there are times when your children will feel like they’re competing for your love especially if you’re bringing home some assignments from work.

You can’t divide your attention and balance everything perfectly and this is just one of those things that happen. Somehow, one thing will suffer for the other to ‘flourish.’

ii.Your relationship with your partner will suffer

This is also unavoidable unless you nurture an understanding between you and your spouse.

They have to understand that your job is demanding so they won’t always get the attention they’re used to getting.

These situations can cause tension and sometimes arguments. Let them know in advance to avoid unnecessary headaches in the future.

iii.Your time for self-care will be cut in half

That’s if you’re lucky enough to have any time for yourself. While everyone needs personal space where they can unwind for the sake of their own sanity, this might be a thing of the past if you’re a working mom.

Self-care will basically be those two or three minutes when you appreciate the little things like a warm nice warm bath, the calm and silence when the kids are asleep and occasional movie nights with your partner.

Your whole definition of self-care tends to change as you start working.

 It’s unfair to be treated differently for things you have no control over (Shutterstock)

iv.Time management might be a problem

It’ll be hard to get that perfect score on time management at the office.

You have to wake up early, prepare breakfast, and make sure the kids are ready for school then get ready.

By the time you’re on your way to work, you might be caught up in the morning traffic.

Many working moms struggle to keep time but practice makes perfect.

v.People might treat you differently at work

This is a serious issue for moms-to-be and moms working in a male dominated environment.

Discrimination is a disgusting trend that still happens to date and is characterized by harassment by colleagues and bosses, pay cuts, sympathy that’s uncalled for and the overall assumption that you’re not competent.

It’s unfair to be treated differently for things you have no control over.

But to give credit where it’s due, we can safely say that the world has come a long way when it comes to working women and mothers although there’s still a long journey ahead.

vi.You’ll have the occasional breakdown

Every working mom feels overwhelmed from time to time. Surely no one is invincible to stress or feeling like you can’t handle life’s demands anymore.

You have to regulate your schedule by taking off days, holidays and practicing deep breathing a few times a day when you have breaks.

Work and family life are both fulltime jobs. You should think outside the box to make things easier for everyone.

Although there is no one-size-fits-all kind of solution, this could be of help to jump start a more balanced schedule:

Get extra help around the house

Whether it’s hiring a babysitter or someone to handle the chores, it’s better to have someone who you trust to give a helping hand.

This will free up time you could have spent to clean or cook to be with your children or spouse.

Use some time saving techniques

The best way to save on time is incorporating technology into your routines.

Consider saving up for a washing machine, dishwasher, vacuum cleaner and other machines that will ease the burden.

Separate your work from your family

Stress from work or home can interfere with the balance.

You shouldn’t take out the stress from a bad day at work on your kids or your spouse.

Creating those boundaries will make a positive impact.

What did you hate sharing as a kid?

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