Since becoming a mom or two under two, I finally get it. I understand why parents, especially moms, struggle with work-life balance. Work-life balance for moms is a beast of a topic, but I want to share a few things that have helped me stay grounded since giving birth to my second son. I’m still learning as I go; I’m definitely not perfect, but I try to be the best mom and entrepreneur I can be. This is how to balance work and family as a mom.

The Giving Tree

Have you read the book The Giving Tree? A tree and a young boy create a friendship. The boy constantly asks for something from the tree, and the tree gives everything it has to the boy, to the point where it’s just a stump. 

I see a lot of moms who are giving their heart and soul to their children to the point where it’s draining them. I don’t want parents to become a stump, where you give everything you have to your child and you become a shell of a person. 

Instead, think about this airplane analogy. On planes, they tell you to put your oxygen mask on before helping someone else (AKA your child.) I see a lot of parents putting oxygen on their kids and they run out of oxygen before they can help themselves. You have to take care of yourself before you can be the best mom you can be to your child. 

Tips for Work-Life Balance for Moms

I’m in a crazy season of life with two boys under two years old. Work-life balance has been a lot of trial and error, but these things have worked well for me so far.

Self-Care

Work-life balance for moms looks like taking care of yourself. If your child sees you navigating motherhood, work, and life well, they’ll understand how to do it themselves one day. Kids are sponges – they soak in everything you say and do. If they see you prioritize exercise, they’re more likely to do that one day, too. It’s important to set a good example for your kids. You’re helping your child by taking care of yourself. 

Morning Routine

I know it sounds impossible, but getting up an hour or two early can give you a lot of time for yourself. I know moms who do bible study, workout, go on a walk, meditate, or journal by themselves in the mornings. It sets the tone for the rest of the day and you can get a lot more accomplished.

I like to get up and move my body in the morning. According to a 2019 study, exercising in the morning may have health benefits, including better sleep, enhanced focus throughout the day, and improved decision-making.

Unplug on the Weekends

Turning off social media on the weekends has been life-changing for me. As a parent with ADHD, social media is a huge distraction for me. I get sucked in so quickly and accidentally spend 30-60 minutes scrolling. Unplugging helps me focus on my family and stay present in the moment.

A study showed that taking time off social media can benefit your mental health. Constant exposure to influencers and people portraying a perfect life can lead to stress, anxiety, and feelings of not being a good enough mom. Stepping away from social media, even for a day or two, improves your mental health and emotional stability.

Episode #26 talks all about this topic!

Off the Grid Day

Sunday is my off-the-grid day. I turn my phone on airplane mode and spend quality time with my family. I’ve even started setting boundaries with our family and friends – we aren’t accepting calls, texts, or FaceTime on Sundays. Any other day of the week is fine, but Sundays are for the four of us only.

Have Something to Look Forward To Every Week

Implementing work-life balance for moms includes having something to look forward to. My thing is I love going to farmers’ markets on Saturdays. Even my kids look forward to the farmers market! 

Here are some other fun things you can plan to look forward to:

• Family walks
• Movie night
• Cooking dinner together
• A relaxing bath
• Coffee date with a friend
• Exercise class
• Creative hobby (painting, knitting, crafting, etc.)
• Family game night
• Spa or salon appointments

Whatever floats your boat! You don’t have to do the same thing every week but have at least one thing to look forward to each week.

Make Time for Your Partner

Checking in with your partner every day makes a big difference. It lets them know they aren’t forgotten or neglected. Sometimes as moms, we focus all our attention on the kids and push our spouses to the side. That’s not good for your marriage. Spend a few minutes each day to show appreciation for your spouse – they’re in this with you!

Time Block

Time blocking helps me plan my days and weeks. I know I’m going to meal prep on Sunday. I can plan meals and grocery shop beforehand to be more productive when I cook on Sunday. 

It also reduces overwhelm. Us moms juggle a lot of responsibilities. Time blocking breaks large tasks into manageable chunks. It gives us a better sense of control over our day. 

Importance of Work-Life Balance for Moms

These tips have been a game changer for me and my family. I hope this episode on how to balance work and family as a mom has given you a different perspective. I’m not trying to come across like I have it all together (I definitely don’t.) We’re all just doing our best and I wanted to share some things that have worked well for me, hoping they will help you too. 

If you liked this episode, check out…

Episode 3: Ladies, You Need to Know Your Numbers: Here’s Why

Episode 5: How I Cope With Postpartum Anxiety

Episode 16: Sleep Hygiene 101: Building a Better Bedtime Routine for Parents and Kids

Episode 26: The Benefits of Unplugging From Social Media for ADHD Parents

Episode 27: How to Deal with ADHD as a Parent