How to be a Working Mom

It's not easy to "have it all", but with confidence, energy, and people to help you... you can be a mom and have a career.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Flexibility
• Loving people who can help
• Energy

1. First things first, if you have a baby, there is probably a father. Ask if he is willing to be a stay-at-home dad. This is becoming a more common option than many people think. He may have a flexible job, and have more free hours than you do. Or you make more money than he does. Point is, he is your first option.
2. If you have family around, ask if they are willing to help. Many grandparents enjoy spending time with their grandkids. They might be able to take a day here and there, which is one less day you have to pay for expensive childcare.
3. Be able to let go of some responsibility. If you are working, you don't have complete control of how your child is raised. This is why it is best if you can have the baby's father or family help with the childcare responsibilities. You can let people know what you want, but you can't be there all the time.
4. Research daycare possibilities. This includes philosophies, child-to-caretaker ratio, location, and expenses. This is the most expensive option, and requires the most research.
5. Once you have returned to a regular schedule, going back to work will get easier. There will be days where babysitters cancel, people get sick, and the whole system falls apart. Have a sense of humor, and do the best you can.

Tips & Warnings

• Maybe your are working for financial reasons, or maybe it's because you are happier working than being a stay-at-home parent. Do what works for you.
• Look into flexibility options at work including telecommuting, flexible hours, part-time hours and job-share options.
• Reach out to other working moms in your workplace. You aren't alone. About 70-75% of moms are working moms!
• Don't let anyone make you feel bad about your decision. It is your decision, and you are doing what is best for your family.
• If you are a working mom, DO NOT allow companies to discriminate against you. Know the Family and Medical Leave Act and issues involving Pregnancy Discrimination, and contact your Human Resource Department if you have problems in your workplace.