Sometimes you feel that pure adrenaline alone is keeping you going and you wonder how you are able to survive, let alone function well at work and juggle all the other requirements of being a busy mum.
You know that if you could only work to a schedule, things would be more manageable, but the little one at home knows nothing of schedules! These are crucial formative times for the newborn, who is entirely dependent on mum and all these requirements can sometimes make you feel as if you are working a 9-to-5 shift overnight, as well.
You are loving your new life as a devoted mother, but often feel as if you are at your wits’ end as you struggle to find that extra bit of energy to conquer seemingly mundane tasks. How are you going to get through the new work week which is rapidly approaching?
While we have already determined that it is difficult to maintain a schedule and if someone mentions the phrase “time management” to you once more, you are going to scream, but it is nevertheless important for you to establish as close to a routine as you possibly can.
Unless we have a routine, we will just bounce from one problem to another and build up an increasing level of stress, compounding and affecting other areas as we go. Although you might not like to think that you have to do so, it’s important for you to get into a routine as soon as possible.
In the mornings, keep your procedures as simple as possible. Getting up can be a real wrench if your night-time rest has been disrupted by baby’s needs. Nevertheless, there is much to do and if you do these items in the same order each day, it will be easier.
Your top priority must be your exercise regime. This is most important and you should not be tempted to lay for 15 minutes extra in bed. Position your treadmill so that you can view the headlines, traffic problems and the weather on the TV ahead of you, even as the coffee is brewing in the kitchen. When you are done, it’s time to get the children up and make sure they have their own chores to do to lighten your load.
You will need to get this down to a fine art, or even a science, every day. This can be the most stressful time of the day as you are trying to wake yourself up and focus on what you have to do. By insisting on a clockwork routine and making sure that all your family are “on board” with this concept and that they help you, you’ll be ready to get out of the door running, on time.
From time to time, you might think that you have nothing available when it comes to keeping up with your “me time” and enjoying your social life, having to concentrate so hard on work and the baby. Take time to foster a good relationship with a caregiver and understand how important this person can be to you.
At work, you will, also hopefully, have a very understanding boss. No matter how understanding the boss is, never take advantage of any situation and only call in favours or use delay allowances whenever necessary, including personal days. The more that you play fair with your boss, the easier it will be to deal with emergencies, should they come along.
Try not to schedule anything that is too demanding, technically for you at work in the morning and at all times, do not overload your schedule unrealistically.
Time management is very important during your 9-to-5 routine at work and you should try not to allow work to spill over into your own personal time.
In most cases, professional coaching can focus your attention on key areas of your life. Many in your position have used dedicated coaching for women and have often been able to get past “the wall” by turning to online life coaching solutions.
Amanda Alexander is Director of Coaching Mums and a highly acclaimed ICF-accredited coach who delivers professional coaching programmes to working mums who yearn for success, balance and fulfilment. Are you a juggling mom? Download our free eBook for working moms that will give you 5 simple and instant ways to balance your life right now!

