Balancing act - Summer edition
When we were younger, summer was an epic moment in our lives. No school, no homework, no bedtime rules, lots of ice cream, some days full of water sports, some days it’s a BBQ. Nobody really warns you how much this changes when you become a parent. Yes, summer still has a charm to it, but it is full of planning and getting by. Work doesn’t take a three-month break. Toddlers don’t take a three-month break.
With the weight of taking care of the house, it becomes a balancing act that leaves many working mothers feeling stretched thin. Here are some of the challenges faced:
Finding a suitable summer camp that fits your child’s interests and needs can be time-consuming and stressful. The process often involves extensive research, visits, and application forms. Even when you find the right camp, many operate from 9 AM to 3 PM and often exclude Fridays. This limited schedule leaves a significant gap in coverage, making it difficult for working parents to manage their work hours around the camp schedule. Not to mention that it’s expensive.
Burnout: The juggling act of managing work, household responsibilities, and children’s activities can lead to severe burnout. Without adequate support or flexibility, parents often find themselves overwhelmed and exhausted.
Feeling Stuck: The constant need to be present and available for both work and family can lead to a feeling of being stuck. The lack of personal time and space for relaxation or self-care further exacerbates this feeling.
Emotional Toll: The pressure of ensuring children have a fun and fulfilling summer while also meeting work demands can take an emotional toll. Guilt, frustration, and a sense of inadequacy are common feelings among working mothers during this season.
Navigating these challenges can make summer feel like anything but a vacation for working parents. The relentless cycle of planning and juggling can leave you feeling depleted and disconnected.
If you’re feeling this way, it might be time to seek some support. Schedule a coaching session with me to explore strategies for managing these challenges and finding a balance that works for you. Let's turn your summer of career hell into a time where you can thrive both at work and at home.