FTWM: Stay Sane From Insanity

To be honest, being a FTWM (Full-time working mother) can be quite tiring on most days. I came across some people who will think that I'm a "super woman" (without the cape of course). In reality, I felt like I'm rushing everyday. Rushing to send the kids to & fro from their schools, rushing to go to work, rushing to send the kids to their enrichment classes and etc. Yes...now you can see I'm complaining but that is just to show that I'm after all a human with emotion. Looking on the bright side, I still treasure the time I am spending with them now because I know when they start to grow up (they grow up pretty fast) I might not be able to do that for them anymore. Enough of my ramblings, here are some insights on how I survive being a FTWM:

F = Fast

Over the years, I have to learn how to be fast in whatever I do. Eat fast, bath fast, dress up fast, walk fast, talk fast and etc. Sometimes when I knew that we have to go out the next day, I will try to pre-pack what I need to bring out so that I will minimize the chances of forgetting to bring something. Maybe u might find me quite an impatient person but you have to understand time is never enough for working mothers like us.

T = Technology & Time
I rely heavily on Google calendar & Note (android app) on my android mobile phone everyday. Without reminders and schedules, I think its very difficult for me to plan and organise my life. 

I don't put very strict restriction on how long my children are exposed gadgets everyday *guilty* as long as they have finished their homework, revisions or readings. Sometimes children need their "way" to release their stress and learn about the new technology to keep up with the times too. When they are studying or playing with each other, it sort of gives me some rest time too.

I will try to find time to communicate with my children whenever we are travelling in the car, resting at home or even doing "business" in the toilet. Trying not to neglect any of my child is very important to me so that none of them will feel left out.

W = Well Balanced

Trying to set a balance between work & family is a constant reminder to myself. When I knock off from work, I try not to bring any work problem or unhappiness home. Although I do not have the luxury to have a lot of me-time or meet up with friends, I try to relax myself by doing things I like such as watching drama series or online shopping. Occasionally will sneak go out with hb for a movie date when children are in their lala-land.

M = Manage

It doesn't matter if I'm micro or macro managing in the household. Delegating tasks to children if they know how to handle by themselves, for example bathing or keep their things neatly. The elder kids can take turn to babysit the youngest kid. I have also learnt to let go and engaged a full-time helper to do all the house chores for me so that I can spend more time interacting with my kids. More importantly, if anything that is related to my children's well being or safety, I felt much safer to leave them in my mother's care or someone whom you can trust for sure.

At the end of the day, I can't say that my methods are the best and applicable to every working mothers because our situations are different. When everything doesn't seem to fall in place, just "Keep Calm & Listen To Your Heart". I'm sure you will be able to find the best solution to manage your life as a FTWM.

This is a blog train hosted by Kids R Simple on “A Peek into the After Work Hours of a FTWM“. Read about how the other 22 FTWMs handle their kids and household everyday from 1 June to 22 June. The aim is to give other working mums motivation, ideas and support to deal with the everyday demands of juggling work and family while keeping sane. We will be happy to hear your story, tips and even an encouraging word will make our day! Share your thoughts in the comments!

Tomorrow, WaiWai from PeiPei.HaoHao will be sharing her life & tips:
Waiwai is a full-time-working mother to a 5.5-year-old girl and a 4.5-year-old boy. With her supportive husband, she is able to cope well with work and family. Waiwai blogs about her parenting journey, DIY crafts, simple cooking and fun activities at PeiPei.HaoHao.