Time Management

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How do working adults, especially with kids that are less than 5yo, manage their time?

Do you guys feel exhausted most of the time? But at the same time when your little ones are healthy and happy you know that everything is worth it.

Do you feel guilty when you don’t spent enough time with your little ones or missing out their childhood due to your work? But these days, it’s almost impossible that one can be housewife/husband unless your partner is earning more than enough to support the family.

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Dear @Whispering ,

Thank you for reaching out. Parenting in today’s world can be incredibly challenging. Balancing work and family life, especially with young children under five, often leaves many working adults feeling exhausted. Managing the demands of a job while caring for little ones can be overwhelming at times. However, the joy of seeing your children healthy and happy can also make all the effort feel incredibly rewarding. It’s normal to feel conflicted and confused by these contrasting emotions. :people_hugging:

It’s common to feel guilt when you can’t spend as much time with your children as you’d like or when work commitments cause you to miss out on moments of their childhood. Many parents struggle with this, especially when both partners need to work to support the family. :orange_heart:

Transition, change, and grief over missing your old life are normal feelings. Practising self-compassion and grace is important. Recognise that achieving a perfect 50-50 balance between work and family is unrealistic. Sometimes, it’s about calibrating and adjusting priorities based on the needs of the moment. There will be times when work demands more time, and other times when family needs your attention more. It’s okay to course correct based on what each moment requires.

In this season of life, prioritise attunement and presence, which can go a long way for the whole family. Creating your own unique family traditions, like a special handshake or a five-minute dance party, can bring laughter and fun into daily routines. Remember, it’s not about being perfect but about being good enough and being present in any given moment to fully enjoy it. :smiley:

Here are some tips for time management as a parent:

  1. Prioritise and Plan: Identify the most important tasks and plan your day accordingly. Use lists or schedules to stay organised.

  2. Delegate and Share Responsibilities: Share tasks with your partner or other family members to lighten the load and create more quality time with your children.

  3. Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries between work and family time. Try to dedicate specific hours for work and set aside uninterrupted family time.

  4. Flexible Working Arrangements: Explore flexible working arrangements if possible, such as remote work or adjusted hours, to better fit your family’s schedule.

  5. Self-Care: Take care of yourself physically and mentally. When you’re well-rested and balanced, you’ll have more energy and patience for your children.

Parenting seasons change, just like how the newborn phase seemed daunting but you overcame it. Give yourself permission to do the best you can and prioritise self-care. When you’re regulated, it’s easier for your child to be regulated too.

If things become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support. You’re not alone, and many parents are navigating similar challenges, striving to balance their responsibilities while finding moments to connect with their children too.

I hope the above has been helpful and if you’d like more resources or if there is anything else you’d like to share with us, please do. We’re here to listen to you, your feelings are valid and you matter! :grinning:

Take care,
Cool Breeze =)

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