working moms
The Stress of Being Superwoman
Let's face it, the term "Superwoman" may be a fallacy that does more harm than good. Do we really need to do it all — or is it okay if we can't? What is most important: doing everything right or doing the best we can with what really matters? Realizing that we can't be everything to everybody can make life seem less stressful. Here are some practical ways to help minimize stress.
First, if you're a busy stay-at-home mom, turn naptime into time for you! Don't feel pressured to do something productive every time you're faced with a block of free time. Relax, read, have a quiet time, watch a simple, enjoyable movie, take a bath or do something that makes you happy.
If you have older children, involve them in family decision-making and household chores. As your children reach school age, you may want to consider limiting after-school activities to one or two favorites. This can alleviate excessive running around, allowing more quality time for family. And it's always helpful to "bounce" things off other mothers with children in similar age brackets — to share experiences and concerns with and remind you that you aren't alone.
If you're a woman in the workforce, find ways to chat with other women about balancing and juggling things. Discuss shopping ideas (where to get the best deals in town), meal preparation (planning meals for the following week or fixing several meals and freezing them for the future), organizational tips (colorcoding a calendar with children's activities — pink for Gina, purple for Matt and green for Tim), or suggestions for fun things to do as a family. And praise the Lord for carpools!
Whether you're a stay-at-home mom or a woman in the workforce, we all need to learn to prioritize our time. Try making a chart or table to help you divide your time according to order of importance: God, family, work, friends, self, etc. If you're married, be sure and plan time with your spouse. Even if your relationship is healthy and good, your relationships with other family members will benefit immensely from the "date nights" you take — just the two of you. And when all is said and done, the best tip is to keep life simple, enjoy everyday pleasures. And don't get down on yourself when you can't do it all!
Background Information
What to Look For In a Nursery School or Playgroup
When you leave your child in someone else's care, there are some concerns you need to consider.
Working Moms Are Nothing New
It's just that they didn't have to leave their babies in daycare to do it.
Questions and Answers
Do you feel it is still important to have Mom at home in the teen years?
Answer
Do you think it is all right for a woman to make it her exclusive career goal to be a wife and mother? Or should there be something else?
Answer
What do you think of placing children in child-care centers so mothers can work?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
How Motherhood Changed Me
One professional woman recounts her first few weeks at home, alone, with her new baby.
I Can't Do It All
Balance in life is often elusive. But it can be attained.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
The Most Important Job in the World
When it comes to mothering, beware of substitutes.
Fitting Kids Into a Life
We're well-versed in how to make it in the corporate world. What we need is a little advice about making it in the nursery.
Related Topics
Transitions: Changing Jobs, Moving
Relationships: Communication Gaps
Parenting Teens: Communication Problems
