Being a working mother is a rewarding yet challenging journey where balancing professional responsibilities and family commitments can be tricky, if not impossible some days. In today’s fast-paced world, finding harmony in life is crucial for our well-being.

We know this. But how can we actually do it?

Understanding Work-Life Integration 

Work-life integration differs from the idea of work-life balance.

Balance implies separating work and personal life into distinct parts. Integration, on the other hand, focuses on blending these aspects, allowing us as working mums to thrive in both spheres without feeling overwhelmed or guilty.

While integration is the goal, it’s not always easy to achieve. Here are 6 things you can do to start building your integrated life and create a sense of balance and fulfilment.

Strategies for Work-Life Integration: 

 

1. Define Your Priorities 

Begin by identifying your priorities, both at work and home.

What are the non-negotiables in each area? Clarifying your values and goals will help you make informed decisions and allocate time and energy accordingly.

2. Set Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time (and stick to them!).

Then it’s time for some potentially tough conversations. You need to communicate your boundaries to your colleagues and family to ensure respect for your designated work and family hours.

3. Embrace Flexibility

It’s time to embrace flexibility in your work arrangements whenever possible.

Explore options such as flexible hours that align with your family’s needs while meeting your professional obligations.

4. Delete and Delegate

You can’t do it all and you don’t have to. Here you need to be clear on what will and won’t get done.

Be selective about commitments and say no to activities or responsibilities that don’t align with your priorities or values. Focus on activities that bring joy, fulfilment, and meaningful connections.

Remember that not everything has to be done by you!

Once you know what’s on the list, negotiate with your spouse / co-parent to split household or childcare responsibilities.

And then let go of what you’ve deleted or delegated!

5. Practice Self-Care

Self-care is not about bubble baths and spa days. It’s about managing your energy and your physical, mental, and emotional health.

Moving your body and giving yourself “brain breaks” improves energy and productivity. And they don’t have to all be time consuming – think of 2, 5 and 10 minute “energy breaks” that you can incorporate into your days.

6. Reflect and Adjust

Regularly evaluate your integration strategies and make adjustments as needed. Reflect on what’s working well and what needs improvement, and be open to making changes to enhance your overall harmony and well-being.

Achieving life integration as a working mom is an ongoing journey requiring self-awareness, resilience, and adaptability. You can create a harmonious balance between your professional and personal life. You can feel more fulfilled, be more productive, and improve your overall well-being.

Remember that finding harmony is not about perfection but about making intentional choices that align with your values and priorities.

Download my free resource the “Creating Balance for Working Moms” workbook to help you build your own integrated life.

This article was written by  Sally Wade one of our partner coaches who helps working moms ignite their brilliance, find their balance, and excel in their careers – creating more time, ease and fulfilment without sacrificing their identity or burning out. You can get in touch via her profile page.

April 22, 2024