How to Thrive as a Working Mom
I’ll never forget the day another mom told me I had bitten off more than I could chew. Her tone didn’t sound concerning—it sounded judgmental. At the time, I had four kids, and I had decided to launch my new writing firm. Her argument was that I should wait until my kids were significantly older before I pursued entrepreneurship. I respectfully disagreed. Fast forward many years later, I still disagree and have learned several valuable lessons. I’ve also published over 200 books for other authors, established a presence in the independent publishing community, participated in speaking engagements and public events, and worked with many more aspiring authors—while being a mother to seven children. Has it been easy? No. Is it hard? Absolutely. If there’s one thing, I’ve learned about being a working mom, it’s that we can do hard things. It’s up to us to accept the challenge, develop a plan and conquer it.
There is an endless pursuit of balance and perfection in the #momlife community, and I’d like to set the record straight about that. In the personal example I gave, the statement “You can’t have it all” was insinuated. “Something is going to take up most of your time. Something will suffer. Either it will be your romantic relationship, your kids or your career. You simply can’t have it all.” But can we have it all? Can we have a thriving family and a career without having resentment from children, spouses and loved ones? How do we prevent burning out and spreading ourselves too thin?
“Recent Barna data collected on working couples in America show that the majority of American working couples (95%) believe they can maintain their individual careers and still come together to raise a healthy family, all while staying in love.” This is encouraging. These statistics were from a survey between over 1500 couples who earn at least 40K annually.
Our economy has dramatically changed. Inflation has made the price of just about everything rise. The need for more income in the household has become critical. More and more moms are pursuing their careers, launching their businesses, joining small businesses, and tapping into their skillsets and creativity to make money. This means, we are managing tight schedules, probably not getting enough sleep, probably not eating right, and are barely making it. This summer alone has taught me what being a busy working mom really means. I found myself spinning in circles most days trying to make it to football practice, t-ball games and basketball practice. So, how can we beat burnout and thrive as working moms?
Be honest about your family dynamic
Identify what you can do and what will create unnecessary stress. Are you working at a job that’s conducive to your family life? I’ve had to ask myself these questions. Give yourself permission to make hard decisions that will be the best thing you can do for your family. Do you have the flexibility you and your family need? It’s unfortunate that some companies don’t offer flexibility, even for virtual positions. You need to be able to use your professional skills and grow, while managing your home life. Sometimes, you need to step back and reevaluate your current pathway. Additionally, understand that you can successfully start your own business, run it at home and grow it, no matter what season of motherhood you’re in. You have options.
Prioritize accordingly
Now that you know what works, create a system that will allow you the opportunity to grow professionally and thrive in the home. Use technology to help you manage your busy lifestyle. Learn how to strategize and work your plan. Use a planner that will help you manage your schedule, motivate you to press forward, and allow you to keep up with your demanding lifestyle. A good planner can make a difference and how organized you feel and actually are!
Invest in your professional life and home life
Pursuing growth in your professional life and home life is critical. When was the last time you’ve attended a workshop or training seminar? Are you interested in advancing in your career? If you’re an entrepreneur, do you attend networking events? Seeking professional growth opportunities can create better financial opportunities for your family. Our kids are going to grow, whether we grow and evolve with them. Finally, consider investing in your family by making sure you provide the time, attention, and safe space for them.
Kennisha Griffin is an author of eight inspirational books that are fiction and non-fiction, and has served the writing community for 15 years. She is the owner of Create and Blossom Studios, a book writing, publishing, and publicity firm that helps authors establish their new careers and share messages of hope. Kennisha, her husband and their seven children reside in Central Texas. Learn more about Create and Blossom Studios at www.createandblossomstudios.com.
