How to Juggle School, Career, and Motherhood

Perhaps you’ve heard about women that “want to do it all”. Well, for most of us there’s no real choice in the matter. Many families need a second income, which requires mothers to remain in the workforce. But daycare is so expensive that you really need to stay in school yourself if you want to earn more money so that your entire paycheck isn’t going straight to childcare. It can be a lot to handle, whether you want to take it on or not. But women are doing it every day and you can, too. It turns out that you really can have it all if you just know how to juggle. So here are a few tips and tricks to keep you on top of all the demands on your time (without going off the deep end).

1. Just say no. The word “NO” is an essential tool in your juggling arsenal. You absolutely must be willing to deflect additional demands on your time. Even though others might see you as Wonder Woman, capable of handling anything, you can really only take so much, and your family, work, and schooling come first. So you may want to minimize social obligations, at least until you finish school.
2. Get organized. Any type of juggling requires organization, especially when you virtually have three careers on your hands. So you need to create a comprehensive schedule if you want to fit everything in and pre-plan as much as possible. This means taking the time to sit and make a weekly schedule it will save you time in the long run), prepare meals, pack bags, and set alarms. As a bonus, this prep work will allow you to relax and sleep better.
3. Use modern tools. Gone are the days when you had to tote a gigantic bag in order to hold all of your important stuff. These days a smart phone or tablet can house your address book, calendar, to-do list, project manager, work files, and even textbooks and term papers. You can also use it to check traffic, refill pharmacy prescriptions with one click, find quick and easy recipes, and keep the kids occupied (with a variety of games and apps). These time savers will only help you to juggle all of your many commitments.
4. Stress less. This is certainly easier said than done. But when you’re organized and prepared, your stress level will definitely go down. However, you should also plan for stress-reducing activities. Make sure you’re scheduling in time to sleep and to connect with your spouse (or other family and friends) as a way to unwind. Also, squeeze in a day off here and there even if it means playing hooky (call it a mental health day) and make sure to give yourself a break when you’re sick; you clearly need it.
5. Eat right and exercise. Okay, the last thing most working mothers want to do is get up early to exercise, but hear me out. You don’t have to be engaged in masters in nursing online programs to know that a healthy, balanced diet and frequent exercise give you more energy and help you to perform at your peak. Plus, an early workout can help you to clear your head and prepare for the day (not to mention get some valuable time to yourself). You’ll be surprised by how much better you function when you’re taking care of your own health and fitness before worrying about everything else.

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Hollie

Hollie is the owner and coordinator of Real Moms Real Views. She loves spending time with her family which consists of her handsome hubby and three kiddos ages three and under. She loves her fur baby (dog), the smell after it rains, red nail polish, chick flicks, and anything chocolate!
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