Of all the many tough acts to balance, parenthood and career probably rank highest. Being a new parent is a wonderful experience, but at times it can be really difficult and stressful, especially when you are a modern day working woman. It is however important that a woman finds the right balance for work and family without any party suffering neglect. Below are methods I think working class mums should adopt in other to find the right balance.

 

Take time for yourself

It’s important to remember that it’s okay to want — and to take — a break from the baby once in a while.  In As much as you want to be a great mum, you sometimes need to find quality time for yourself alone.

Share baby duties and household chores

Your spouse should be able to help. Setting up clear guidelines and expectations will circumvent a slew of resentments and disagreements. Decide who will do which household chores, early feedings and other tasks to help you return to work and thus balance daily duties.

Get the most from your commute

Listen to an audio book, walk or bike to work if you are close enough, or just soak in the early morning Lagos drama around you to gain some stress-free you time. Or consider taking public transportation so you can enjoy a good book, socialize on the phone, or chill out in an ‘nkwobi’ joint before you get home.

Prioritize

Once your newborn makes his/her way into the world, your priorities will need to be rearranged. After a long day at the office, letting chores slide until the weekend or waiting until baby is off in dreamland to go through the mail may help you keep your sanity. Just remember to make some couple’s time with your partner a high priority on your list in order to achieve true work and family balance

Simplify meal time

Reduce the amount of time you spend in the kitchen. There are tons of fabulous meals that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less and others that can be made ahead of time. Or pull out that slow cooker for a meal that is ready when you walk in the door.

Negotiate a flexible work schedule

Whether it’s working extra hours one day a week to get off early once a week, or working from home part-time, it doesn’t hurt to ask your employer for a flexible work schedule. You could also have your partner drop off the baby at a daycare centre, so you can start work an hour earlier, and then pick the baby earlier to cut down on babysitting hours.

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