Being a working parent. You know, the whole balancing act of making sure the bills get paid while also trying to keep tiny humans fed, clothed, and happy?
In my day-to-day professional life - I'm a seasoned financial services and payments expert with over 15 years of experience in operational effectiveness and risk management. Throughout my career, I've challenged the status quo, navigated complexity, and translated leading management practices into actionable strategies. My fearlessness when it comes to big ideas, paired with my attention to detail, has allowed me to execute with excellence and build a track record of success! Over the past 6 years...With love, determination, and a touch of chaos, I've rewritten by CV to add the story of parenthood, one day at a time.
We're diving deep into the myths and truths surrounding working parents, shedding light on the real experiences, struggles, and triumphs that define their unique journey.
Myth 1: "They've Got It All Figured Out"
Let's clear this up right away – there's no secret recipe for nailing this parenting thing while acing your job. It's like spinning plates – sometimes they're all up in the air, and sometimes they crash down. And that's okay. No one's got a monopoly on having it all together.
Myth 2: "It's Either Work or Family"
Who said you have to choose between your career and your kids? It's less about choosing sides and more about shuffling priorities. Sometimes work needs a bit more attention, and other times, it's all about that school play you promised you'd attend. Balance is the name of the game but for most times it will be out of whack.
Myth 3: "They're Always on the Brink of Losing It"
Sure, there are days when chaos reigns – missed calls, forgotten appointments, and laundry that seems to have taken on a life of its own. But amidst the madness, there are also moments of pure magic. Like that hug from your little one that erases all the chaos in an instant. Or when you are actually happy your kids rescued you from taking one more call.
Myth 4: "They're Not Fully Present for Their Kids"
While it's true that working parents might not be around as much as they'd like, when we are, you bet we're present. It's all about making the most of the time you have – whether it's reading a bedtime story, having a heart-to-heart chat, or goofing around in the park.
Myth 5: "They're Slacking at Work"
Newsflash: having kids doesn't mean your ambition goes out the window. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Working parents are often the most driven, we have more bills to pay and more future proofing to do, juggling responsibilities at home and delivering top-notch results at work. If we are lucky we get to have kids looking up to us for our work ethics, success, discipline...the truth is not as kids they don't care but again...they have expenses...lol. Anyway you get the picture, we can't slack off! On the other end...we have to become more effective at everything and turn into multitasking ninjas!
Myth 6: "They're Always Guilty"
Guilt is a pesky little thing that likes to hang around, especially when you're a working parent. But here's the thing – you're doing the best you can. Imperfections and all, you're showing your kids what it means to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience. Life is not a walk in the park and sometimes you will not have it all.
In a nutshell, being a working parent isn't about living up to these myths. It's about embracing the beautiful chaos, making choices that feel right for you and your family, and carving out your own unique path.
To all you working parents out there – hats off to you. You're rocking this whole dual-role thing, and your journey is as inspiring as it is real.
Cheers to making things work, one day at a time 🌟