Hey everyone, welcome back to a new working term. I hope you all had a wonderful time with your kids during the school holidays. As a parent, I thoroughly enjoyed being present for my children 24/7. How about you? Balancing multiple responsibilities while still being truly present for our kids can be challenging but achievable. In this blog and video, we'll explore some practical ways for busy parents, professionals, and managers to be fully present in whatever they're doing.
First and foremost, it's crucial to recognise that time is our greatest asset—it's the one thing that cannot be bought. So, whatever you choose to do, give it your undivided attention and effort. When allocating your time wisely during school holidays, if you must work, consider setting specific times that are exclusively dedicated to your children. Don't let thoughts of work or money distract you during these periods. Instead, focus entirely on your kids and the quality time you're spending together.
For those fortunate enough to work from home, like me, have you ever thought about tackling your adult tasks while your children are asleep? Personally, I've found that my most productive writing hours are in the early morning, around 2 or 3 am. After completing my work, I can snuggle back into bed with my little ones, ensuring I wake up refreshed and ready for a full day with them. I used to get stressed out thinking about work and money, but I've realized that worrying about something else only detracts from my experience in the present moment, preventing me from doing anything well. I now consider being a good role model for my kids as equally, if not more, important. It starts with a healthy breakfast, followed by a walk and Minecraft yoga (yes, it's a thing!) before morning tea. We might then plan a playdate with their friends, creating opportunities for social interaction.
After lunch, we engage in some activities like painting and reading before sneaking in some screen time, particularly on rainy days when we've had plenty of them lately. However, it's important to establish rules around screen time. I make sure it's something productive, such as using Microsoft Paint to create artwork or making and editing movies with their phones. Minecraft is also allowed but within moderation. I actively monitor their screen time to ensure it remains balanced.
Mid-afternoon is reserved for swimming or biking, providing a physical outlet for their energy before cleaning up just before Daddy comes home. By setting a routine for them, they have solid, positive foundations to become good, kind, thoughtful, and healthy individuals. And during their focused activities, I have time to relax and recharge. At the end of the day, I've built cherished memories with my children—memories that I hope will last a lifetime. By being fully present in these moments, I not only enjoy creating new memories, but I also find myself re-energised for my own professional work. It's a stark contrast to the times when I used to worry about work and inadvertently pass on negative energy to my children.
Let me share an example of how being present significantly impacted my professional work during the school holidays. I was working on a project for a client, and despite the seemingly chaotic world of childhood where I play the roles of a 24/7 bodyguard, entertainer, cook, teacher, yoga instructor, personal trainer, and everything else, I managed to deliver exceptional results. The client even remarked that my work was "spot-on" and exceeded their expectations. How did I achieve such fantastic results amidst the demands of parenthood? The answer lies in being present in each moment. I encourage you to try it today and experience the positive difference it can make.
Remember, time is a precious gift, and by being truly present, we create beautiful memories and enrich our own experiences and abilities. So, let's make the most of every moment we have with our children and continue to grow as parents, professionals, and individuals.
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