Moms Make It All Work

With today’s tough economy it is no wonder so many women struggle to balance work and motherhood.

Whether you work full-time, part-time, are changing careers or work from home, chances are the juggling act looks somewhat like a circus act. If you are a stay at home mom, the decision was not likely easy to come by, nor is the decision of whether to return to the work force in the future. 

The tug-of-war between work and family that modern moms of today so often feel can be unbearable at times. We are blessed to have options, but the feeling of being pulled in two different directions can often lead to feelings of guilt, exhaustion and self blame. If we work, we miss our children. If we stay home, we miss the income and adult interaction.

There is no right answer to whether a mom should work or stay at home. Rather, the decision should be based on what is right for you and your family in your particular situation.

With that said, meet this week's "Amazing Shores Mom" Jennifer Raybaud.

Jennifer is a long time resident of the Shores and a High School graduate who enjoys spending time with her family: her husband of 22 years, Edward, daughter Katherine, 19, son Matthew, 15, and dog, Henry.

Jennifer has grown a very successful business of her own, starting her Tastefully Simple business back in January 1999, “having led a team of over 1,000 and annual sales of over $6,000,000 for many years,” she said. Jennifer has certainly earned her amazing mom title!

When I asked Jennifer to share some pointers for those moms out there looking to return to the work force, she graciously shared many with me.

To those moms out there looking to work from home, Jennifer offers up this little piece of advice: “Treat your job like a real job and set working time aside so you are not stopping and starting all day with the feeling like you worked for hours when in reality you may have put in very little productive time. Being your own boss can be a blessing. The flexibility is amazing, especially when you have kids—it's one of the things I've enjoyed most. But being your own boss can be tough since there is typically no one holding you accountable. Know why you are working and what you want to achieve from it. Doing so will help keep you dedicated to making things happen, your key to success!”

To those moms out there looking to work outside the home Jennifer recommends setting family expectations and keeping a family calendar to keep it all organized. It is critical that everyone knows his or her new roles as the family transitions.

“I think people function better when they limit the day to day surprises," she said.

The juggle of work and family is not an easy one, and certainly not something to be taken lightly. Our mothering role is ever changing, and what is right for now might not be right in the future. Stay true to yourself, she recommends.

Lastly, Jennifer recommends “taking time out for you. I have seen everything from the mom who carries it too far, out with the girls all the time, to moms who are almost martyrs when it comes to never doing anything for themselves. All things in moderation is my motto. I think getting a manicure, going out to lunch or dinner with a pal or just treating myself occasionally makes me a better mom. My mom did it, and I've chosen to live that way as well. Model behaviors of a mom who values herself and her family will too!” 

Best wishes for you and your families learning how to make it all work smoothly. Be sure to leave me a comment on the Patch or at amamajourney@gmail.com. I love hearing from you!