Balancing Parenting and Work - My Journey of Writing "I AM: Discovering my Identity in Christ

Balancing the demands of parenting and work is no small feat. As a mother, wife, and now an author, I've found that each day presents its own set of challenges and rewards. Recently, I’ve been deeply inspired by a quote from the book The Mother Of All Jobs, which perfectly encapsulates my daily journey: "Balancing parenting and work is a journey."

The Inspiration Behind My Book: My upcoming book, I AM: Discovering my Identity in Christ, is a labour of love that stems from my own experiences and faith journey. As I navigate the roles of a mother, wife, and writer, I’ve learned to embrace the chaos and find beauty in the balance. This book aims to help children discover their identity in Christ through biblical affirmations and activities, and it has been a transformative process for me as well.

Lessons Learned from The Mother Of All Jobs: The Mother Of All Jobs offers profound insights into the balancing act of parenting and work. It emphasises the importance of finding harmony between our professional responsibilities and family life. Here are a few key lessons I’ve taken to heart:

1. Prioritise What Matters Most:

   • One of the main takeaways is the importance of prioritizing what truly matters. For me, this means ensuring that my family always comes first, even amidst tight deadlines and writing sprints.

2. Embrace Flexibility:

   • Flexibility is crucial. There are days when my writing takes a backseat to a family emergency or a child’s need for attention. Being adaptable helps me stay sane and responsive to my family’s needs.

3. Seek Support:

   • Don’t hesitate to seek support. Whether it’s asking for help from a spouse, family member, or friend, having a support system can make a world of difference.

My Personal Insights on Balancing Roles: Balancing multiple roles is a continuous learning process. Here are some personal strategies that have helped me thrive:

• Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work time and family time. When I’m with my family, I strive to be fully present, and during my work hours, I focus on my writing and professional tasks.

• Create a Schedule: Having a structured schedule helps manage time effectively. I allocate specific hours for writing, family activities, and self-care to ensure a balanced day.

• Practice Self-Care: Taking care of myself is essential to taking care of my family. I carve out time for prayer, exercise, and relaxation to recharge my mind and spirit.

• Involve the Family: I involve my family in my work journey. Sharing my writing process and celebrating small milestones with them makes them feel part of my success.

Balancing parenting and work is an ongoing journey filled with ups and downs. However, it’s also a path that offers immense fulfilment and growth. As I continue to write I AM: Discovering my Identity in Christ, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the love and support from my family.

What are some of the strategies you use to balance work and family life? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Let’s continue to inspire and support each other in this beautiful journey of life.