Time and time again, we hear mothers talking about the quest to find some kind of balance.

A large portion of Irish families require two parents to work on some level. One might work full time while the other works part time. Perhaps one works evenings and the other works from home. The reality is that many families require two incomes to keep things afloat.
 
There are a lot of families out there who could probably survive on one income. It depends on the out-goings, number of children and other external factors. Many choose to have two incomes so that niceties such as family days out, holidays and eating out can be enjoyed.
 
Every family is different. Decisions are made based upon what is best in each individual situation. When it comes to family income and financial decisions that is no different. There is no one rule that fits all.
 
Time and time again though, we hear mothers talking about the quest to find some kind of balance. If one element is going well then there is a good chance that another is suffering. A really productive work day might result in an evening where you are simply exhausted and find it difficult to parent as well as normal.
 
Is it possible to strike a balance? To feel as though you are giving enough to your career and to your children. Is there a happy medium? Sometimes the most liberating thing is to accept that perfection cannot be achieved a lot of the time. Instead we might be better off focusing on aiming to simply do  our best all-round. Here are five of my tips for doing just that.
  • Stop expecting too much of ourselves. We are not machines. Make realistic plans and goals.
  • Make sure there is some down-time. This can be particularly tricky for someone who works from home. Closing the door on the work day (or night/weekend) is very important. Without some kind of rest, relaxation and downtime we become resentful and depressed. It has also been proven that we work more effectively when we can allow ourselves to take a break from what we are doing.
  • Making a plan is so important. This goes for making sure the uniforms are washed and ready by Monday, putting a bit of thought in to the food shopping so that meals can be prepped and planned for with more ease, setting up direct debits so that bills are looked after without too much stress. Making a list and having a plan can really make all the difference during this juggling act.
  • Don't be afraid to take the help. Everyone knows how it is. Perhaps you need a couple of hours babysitting help so that you can meet a tight deadline? Perhaps you need to start using the dry cleaners because you can't find the time to iron shirts? Utilise the help and services that will make life easier for you when your time is so precious.
  • Don't compare yourself to other mothers. Easier said than done but things are rarely as they seem on the outside. We are all fighting our own battles. Focus on you, your children, your career and your unique situation.
Written by Tracey, mummy blogger and staff writer with www.familyfriendlyhq.ie
Check out her own blog at love-of-living.blogspot.ie

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