The Professional Mommy

Wife. Four children. A ten-year career in human resources. Two businesses on the side. I know it sounds like a lot, but there is more. I describe myself as a serial entrepreneur. My brain gets bored easily and I love innovation and learning new ways of doing old things.

My life is so busy, at times, it feels like a blur. Really, I hate that feeling because I want to stop and smell the roses and enjoy my life and those special moments with my husband and kiddos. It just so darn hard to do when everyone needs something from you, like now!!

First and foremost, my family comes first. But in this day and age, people are in constant motion due to family and work responsibilities. The key to staying mentally sane is a balance, like everything else in life. Being an HR professional, while raising a family, I have to be able to juggle both, but I definitely have a few items in place to be successful. Below are a few things I want to share with you in order to help you go through life as a professional and mother, successfully.

1.) Schedule, schedule, and did I say schedule?

If you do not want to be running around like a chicken with her head cut off, you will need to plan a schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Leave some room for flexibility, because life definitely happens and can throw a monkey wrench into the best-laid plans. But, the closer you work with your schedule, the easier your life will be. If you work better with writing things down, get a planner or a desk calendar. If you are more of a "tech" person, go ahead and use your calendar on your phone or laptop. Either way, get to scheduling your life! This will keep you sane and on top of things.

2.) Support

Have you heard the movie title, Lean On Me? Well, it's a great movie, but also, the title is really great advice. If you are married, great! Try and get your husband's support as much as you can. Get him to pick up the kids if you are working late or by starting dinner before you come home. If you are a single parent, no problem. Reach out to family and friends to ask for help. I know, you may not be that person who easily asks for help, but if you want to be successful in your career and to know your family is supported at all times, it's essential to ask for help. Trust me, you will thank me later.

3.) Put yourself first.

Yep! That's right. I said it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with putting yourself first. Especially, in the long run, it will positively help your family. What help are you to your loved ones if you are mentally and physically drained? There are so many things going on at one time. There are doctor's appointments, family gatherings, bills to pay, the house to clean. Should I go on or do you get the picture? So, go ahead, get that massage you always wanted or take that professional development course you have been eyeing all year. Women are the center of their families and we are definitely making new and innovative strides in the workplace.

If you follow these three steps, not only will you rock in the workplace, but you will definitely own the title of "Queen" in your household, for a lifetime. And we cannot forget, happy wife, happy life. Now that is the key to happiness!