One of the most challenging parts of the COVID-19 pandemic for so many people has been balancing work with family.
It used to be that you’d send your kids off to school or daycare and then go to work, but now everything is happening in your home!
I’m a big Sarah Jessica Parker fan — since the days of Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and that City.” Her latest film, “I Don’t Know How She Does It” tells the story of a working mother who aspires to do it all!
I don’t even have kids yet and I know exactly how her character feels! Trying to keep it all together at work and at home can leave you overwhelmed and frustrated. But as Sarah Jessica’s character has found — making a to-do list (even if they are in your head) will help you to prioritize and get more done. It will also help to keep you focused and save you time and money.
When you’re running on empty try to remember:
1. It’s OK to not be perfect all the time (this coming from a perfectionist!)
2. Give yourself a break! You are juggling your life, your family’s lives and all your responsibilities at work. Take some time out for yourself to recharge and do whatever you want to do. Even if that means watching the Golden Girls and eating popcorn!
3. Ask for help. No one will think less of you if you reach out for a little assistance. Two heads are better than one — most of the time.
4. Just say no. Of course you want to help with the bake sale and take the lead on a project at work — but if you can’t do it all, then don’t. It’s OK to say that you can’t pile one more thing onto your plate right now. If that means taking a hiatus from your book club — then so be it!
What’s your secret for juggling your work, family life, hobbies and social lives?