Every day is Mother’s Day, not just one day a year. Don’t get me wrong, I love having one day that’s all about ME! However, as mothers, or fathers for that matter, we deserve to be recognized everyday for raising strong, independent members of society.
As a mother of two grown children and 4 grandchildren, my greatest accomplishment in life has been instilling the moral character and independence that transcends generations to my grandchildren. It’s amazing to see!
The impact we can make as mothers, fathers, and grandparents is often not realized until much later in years. We miss a great deal in the early years trying to balance the responsibilities of being adults like jobs, finances and relationships. What would happen if we were able to slow down and bask in the moment, enjoying the miracles we brought forth? We would probably have a lot less dysfunctional people in the world.
The recent Pandemic has forced boundaries on the family environment. As small business owners we often put our business ahead of family thinking that once we succeed we will have time to spend doting on our kids or spouse. However, we never know what tomorrow might bring. Ask anyone who has lost someone during this pandemic. They will happily tell you to live each moment as if it were your last...because one day it may be true.
Even during a time when most are working from home virtually and family and work boundaries are blurred, it is extremely important to prioritize what is important in life. Waiting for the RIGHT time may never come. Here are 8 tips I recently found to help prioritize family time without falling behind in work.
Prioritize family time. I have a friend who recently told me that he had a contract with his family indicating the boundaries between work and family. He helped them understand that certain hours were set aside for work, and that by acknowledging his responsibility to his job, he agreed to spend certain time with family doing all the things that they wanted as well. It definitely helped relieve a lot of stress.
Dedicate screen-free time. Boundaries don’t only apply to adults. Kids have to commit to spending time without distractions as well.
Set up safeguards. Everyone should feel free to speak up if they feel as though their needs are not being met.
Pay attention to your intentions and feelings. On the other side of the coin, family members should be willing to not let things fester. Speak up.
Keep Work at Work, Be Home at Home. If working from home, make sure you have a door that can be closed when work is done. Try not to let work bleed into family discussions or fun time.
Set boundaries and protect your priorities. If a challenge crops up and choices have to be made, make sure everyone understands what is at stake and agree.
Don’t Multitask. Nothing is worse than feeling like you are only being pacified or half-listened to, which leads us to the next tip.
Direct your attention. Make sure you are all in when communicating or spending time with the family. When speaking direct your attention to who you are speaking with.
Keep in mind that everyday should be celebrated and acknowledged for who we are to each other and made to feel worthy.