Parenting and Working Full Time | Julianna Simonelli

Working full-time and being a parent is difficult. You feel like you never, ever have time to get anything done, or never have time to yourself, especially if you are working more than full-time. For example, I am currently writing this as my one-year-old son is sitting in his high chair eating lunch, while we watch Encanto for the fifth time this week—that’s just where we’re at today. 

People ask me, “How do you do it?” and my answer is always, “I’m making it work.” Being a mom is not all sunshine and rainbows, and I have learned that just from being a mom for a short amount of time. However, it is about making the best out of the season you are in right now.

Having a good work-life balance is key to having a happy and manageable life. If I’m being totally honest with you, I am not the greatest at it. Sometimes it can be more difficult when you are in a job that is always changing pace. Even if you have a specific hourly schedule, it can still be tough. I am learning how to prioritize my family but also prioritize my work. Here are a few things I have learned during this past year (and am still learning) about parenting and working full-time. 

1.Your children regularly need quality time with you.

Whether you have a newborn, a school-aged child, or a teenager, spend time with your children. Sit at the table and help them with their homework (as best as you can); go out before school and get coffee (maybe not for the kids—I do not recommend that); or sit on the couch and watch a short show before bed. Whatever it is, take time out of your day to spend quality time with your children. You may look around and see those dirty dishes in the sink or the pile of clothes needing to be folded and put away, but family comes first. Even if it means staying up a little later, those will get done another time—that time with your children is precious.

2. Change the way you organize things in your home.

I don’t know about you, but I hate a mess. I feel like I’m constantly cleaning and always in a state of feeling unorganized, which makes me feel more anxious, like I never have control over my day. There are things to help with that! Maybe switch the way you add to your calendar to make more sense to you and your family. Reorganize your pantry in a way that is easier to handle between all family members. Whatever it is, take control—it will make life easier in the long run.

3. Don’t bring work home.

Before you finish or leave work, review your day. Making this a habit will help you shift your thinking from work to home. If possible, call your partner while on your way home. Sometimes calling them will help get your mind off work as you have a chance to catch up on what is going on in the family. Doing this will also help you prepare for whatever you might be stepping into when you get home. 

Set a routine, but a routine that will mark the move from work to home. This can be as simple as switching clothes or going for a quick walk (if you work from home). 

4. Change your perspective at work.

Being at work can be tough, especially when you have a rough day and all you want to do is be at home with your family. I’ve been there. Try taking a moment during your day and think about your children, about your family. Look at some photos at your desk. It could also be a moment to pray for your kids—maybe about a situation they’re navigating at school, or for their health and God’s protection. This can help you to remind yourself why you are working and doing what you do. 

And if possible, take your family to work social occasions. This can be an enjoyable experience for everyone. Not only that, but having your coworkers meet your children could likely help them understand if something comes up (e.g., if your child is sick and you have to take off or leave work).

5. Find a good support system.

I left this one for last because I believe this is the MOST IMPORTANT takeaway. Find a good support system. God has called us to be a community, not to do life alone. So don’t do life alone! Surround yourself with others who think like you, and have the same values and beliefs as you do. It is so important to have other people who know what you are going through—they can give you advice, tips, and encouragement when you feel like you can’t continue on. Without that support, it will be difficult to do what you need to do on your own. 

If you’re looking for community and a way to connect with others, visit jrnychurch.com/lifegroups to find a life group that fits your needs!

Overall what I’m trying to say is you can’t do everything alone—you need to know your limits. Parenting is hard as it is, then you add work on top of that in order to provide for your family. There will always be busy seasons and things that need to get done at work, but setting boundaries and prioritizing your family will make those long days at work bearable and worth it. Enjoy every moment that you have with your kids: take moments to read together, to sit and cuddle, or to go for a walk on a nice day. You can never get those moments back, so you won’t regret it. 

And one more thing: YOU ARE DOING AMAZING. (Did you know that? YES YOU!)