As I sit down with my coffee (which is getting colder by the minute), I can’t help but marvel at the delicate balancing act that is motherhood. Being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time job in itself, but I’ve also got aspirations and dreams that go beyond diaper changes and toddler tantrums. The question is: how do I juggle both worlds without losing my sanity—or my sense of self?
Let’s face it: life as a stay-at-home mom can feel like a whirlwind. There are days when I’m knee-deep in an assortment of food that’s been thrown over the edge of the high chair, and others when I’m locked in on my laptop, attempting to carve out a moment of productivity. It’s a beautiful chaos that keeps me on my toes, and while it can be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. Here’s how I navigate this balancing act without losing my mind (most days):
1. Set Clear Goals:
To manage my time effectively, I’ve learned to set clear goals for both my motherhood journey and my career ambitions. Each week, I jot down a few tasks I want to accomplish—whether it’s launching a new blog post, filming a new YouTube video, or simply spending quality time with Kyle. Having a roadmap helps me stay focused and organized.
2. Create a Flexible Routine:
While I thrive on structure, I also understand the unpredictable nature of toddler life. I’ve crafted a flexible daily routine that allows for both work and play. Mornings are often reserved for focused work, while afternoons are dedicated to fun activities with Kylie. But I’ve learned to adapt as needed, whether it’s swapping nap times for a spontaneous park outing or letting Kylie play independently while I check off a few tasks.
3. Prioritize Self-Care:
It’s easy to lose sight of self-care amidst the hustle and bustle of motherhood and work, but I’ve made it a priority. Whether it’s a quick workout, reading a few pages of a book, or indulging in a quiet cup of hot tea (even if it’s not so hot anymore), taking care of myself helps me show up better for Kylie and my career. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential.
4. Embrace Help:
I used to think I could do it all on my own, but I’ve come to realize that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Whether it’s leaning on Kyle for support, or engaging family members, I’ve found that sharing the load makes the journey so much more manageable. Plus, it opens up opportunities for connection and friendship.
5. Use Nap Times Wisely:
Ah, nap time—the sacred hour when anything feels possible. I’ve learned to utilize those precious moments for focused work. Whether it’s responding to emails, brainstorming new content, or tackling my to-do list, nap times are my golden hour. But I also remind myself that it’s okay to take a break and relax during this time too.
6. Find Your Passion:
Staying connected to my passions has been vital in maintaining my identity as both a mom and a professional. I love writing and creating content, and I’ve made it a point to incorporate that into my life, whether through my blog or freelance projects. Finding my passion helps me feel fulfilled beyond motherhood and inspires me to keep growing.
7. Celebrate Small Wins:
Every accomplishment counts, no matter how small. Whether I successfully completed a work task or enjoyed a meaningful moment with Kylie, I celebrate the wins. These little victories remind me that I’m doing my best and that both my roles as a mom and a professional are valid and important.
8. Be Kind to Yourself:
The most crucial lesson I’ve learned in this journey is to be kind to myself. There will be days when everything feels overwhelming, and it’s okay to acknowledge that. I remind myself that I’m doing the best I can, and it’s perfectly normal to have ups and downs. Embracing imperfection is part of the process.
Balancing the roles of stay-at-home mom and aspiring professional isn’t always easy, but it’s a journey filled with growth, love, and endless possibilities. I’m learning to navigate this beautiful chaos, and I’m excited to see where it leads me.
So, to all the moms out there juggling both worlds—know that you’re not alone! Together, we’re forging our paths, creating beautiful memories, and embracing the adventure of motherhood, one day at a time. Here’s to us, the multitasking queens of our families!
