There’s a difference between parenting and career ambitions. Both of these responsibilities come with huge commitments and tasks. But how to stay consistent in juggling both at the same time is what matters, and that can be very difficult and overwhelming.
Parenting is a career on its own, requiring time, attention, and patience, especially as a single mom. It takes a determined and strong-willed woman to combine career aspirations with parenting.
In this piece, I want to talk about some practical ways to stay consistent when juggling parenting and career ambitions.
1. Prioritize and Plan Ahead
Effective time management is key. Create a daily or weekly schedule that outlines your work commitments and parenting responsibilities. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, and set realistic expectations for what you can achieve within a given time frame.
2. Set Boundaries Between Work and Family Time
Establish clear boundaries to prevent work from taking over family time and vice versa. Communicate these boundaries to your employer, colleagues, and even your children. Designate specific hours for work and quality time with your child to ensure neither is neglected.
3. Leverage Support Systems
You don’t have to do it all alone. Seek help from family members, friends, or a trusted caregiver when needed. If possible, explore childcare options that align with your work schedule to ensure your child is well cared for while you focus on your career.
4. Embrace Flexibility and Remote Work Options
If your job allows it, consider flexible work arrangements or remote work options. Many employers now offer hybrid schedules, which can help you stay present for your child while meeting your career obligations.
5. Practice Self-Care
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take time to rest, exercise, and engage in activities that help you recharge. A well-balanced lifestyle boosts your productivity and emotional well-being, making it easier to handle both parenting and career responsibilities.
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6. Learn to Say No
Not every opportunity or task deserves your immediate attention. Evaluate your commitments and decline activities that don’t align with your priorities. This prevents burnout and helps you focus on what truly matters.
7. Automate and Delegate Tasks
Use technology to simplify tasks, schedule reminders, automate bill payments, and use meal-planning apps. At home, delegate chores to your children (if they’re old enough) or seek assistance with household duties when possible.
8. Stay Consistent with Small, Daily Wins
Consistency is built through small, intentional actions. Even when things get tough, aim for small progress each day. Whether it’s completing a work task or spending quality time with your child, these little efforts add up over time.
In conclusion, I will say juggling parenting and career ambitions is no easy feat, but with intentionality and the right strategies, it is possible to stay consistent. Prioritize wisely, set clear boundaries, and seek support when needed. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Give yourself grace and celebrate the progress you make along the way. You can do it; just give these steps a try and you’re good to go.
Mary Dickson
Mary Dickson is a versatile professional with over a decade of experience driving innovation at the intersection of technology, marketing, and female empowerment. She is currently the Business Development Manager at GP Business Consulting serving as Lead Consultant with CBI -Netherlands Enterprises Agency. With a background in marketing she’s worked in different roles cutting across HR, Sales, Business Development and Marketing over the past 14 years in the Tech space. She has a keen interest in Digital marketing especially social media and has spearheaded over 50 training programs geared towards training women led business owners and young girls, equipping them with digital and simple tech skills. She has also consulted for companies and institutions across sectors, helping them optimize content, creation, ad management, customer engagement, and automation. She is the powerhouse behind the WeMompreneurs community, which supports mothers in business through training, networking, consultancy in digital tools. Mary is the co-author The Fruit of the Spirit (a children's book). She holds a BSc.Management with Computing and a MSc. Strategic Management and Leadership. She is the Vice Chair , Women’s Affairs of the Ghana Chamber of Young Entrepreneurs and a member of the Advisory Board of Prime HER ( NGO)