Finding balance for working mums during the summer holidays

The summer holidays are upon us, it’s a wonderful time to enjoy with our kids, but balancing work, family and personal time can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you create a better work-life balance this summer.

Creating better work/life balance

1. Create a schedule

• Map out your days: Ensure you have dedicated time for work, family activities, and self-care. P.S. Why not make it more fun and use different colours for each item you are scheduling?
• Booked activities: Add any booked holiday clubs, play dates, childcare, or family holidays.
• Work hours: Include your work hours and days, whether from home, the office, or both.
• ‘Me time’: Schedule self-care as a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether it’s a morning jog, a quiet coffee or a relaxing bath. Make sure you have time to recharge because you cannot look after your family without caring for yourself first.
• Family quality time: Plan specific activities to enjoy with your children, such as picnics, beach trips, bike rides, swimming or family game nights. Quality time doesn’t always mean quantity; it’s about making the moments count. This will ensure you spend time with your family while working over the summer holidays.

2. Set boundaries

Clearly define your work hours and stick to them as much as possible. Communicate your needs clearly to your family, letting them know when you need to focus on work and when you’ll be available for them.

3. Prioritise tasks

Identify the most important tasks for the day and tackle those first. Use a to-do list to keep track of what needs to be done.

4. Delegate

Don’t hesitate to delegate household chores or work tasks if possible. This can free up time for you to spend with your kids or to relax. It is ok to ask for help!

5. Involve the kids

If your children are old enough, engage them in planning activities or helping with chores. This can make them feel involved and reduce the pressure on you.

6. Let it go

• Eliminate distractions: Avoid interruptions during working hours to enhance performance and productivity. Be present and focused on any task that is engaging you.
• Say NO: Decline commitments and requests that don’t align with your values. This will free up more time for what you have planned for yourself and your family.
• Release guilt: Let go of guilt for having to work over the summer holiday or for sending your kids to holiday clubs.
• Embrace imperfection: Let go of perfectionism. Embrace the chaos and enjoy the moments as they come. Sometimes, simply being present is enough.

7. Stay flexible

While having a plan is essential, be prepared to adapt as needed. Summer holidays can be unpredictable and flexibility can help reduce stress and overwhelm. Understand that it’s okay if everything doesn't go as planned. Focus on what you can control, the positive moments and accomplishments - no matter how small.

Creating a better work-life balance during the summer holidays is about planning, prioritising and taking care of yourself too. With these strategies, you can enjoy a more fulfilling and less stressful summer with your family and cherish the moments.