Karen Keller
Working moms and dads get a bad rap. They are damned if they do and damned if they don’t. Do or don’t what? Everything! The working parent is busting you-know-what to be everything, everywhere to everyone. Face it – that’s impossible even for Wonder Woman or Super Man.
Every working parent I know at some time or other has felt run down, exhausted, overwhelmed, unnoticed, and unappreciated. Well, there is something you can do about it. Sure, you can take time for yourself - away from the wanting, nagging and expectations. That may help, of course, it will!
Instead of being a taker, become a giver. Now, before you yell foul, hear me out!
You are giving constantly. And seldom do you take. What I am asking is for you to give one more time but give differently to be a highly appreciated working mother.
So, let’s take another perspective - one from your child’s eyes. How do they see and hear you? What is it they need or want from you? How are you giving it? Is it received? These are all good questions but the answers are what count most.
Here are 3 tips on what you can give to your child and become a highly appreciated working mom in the process:
Listen With Both Ears – And Your Heart. You listen on three levels; your ears, your eyes and your heart. Listening with your ears is when you hear the tone, the expression, the emotion. Don’t miss a beat. Next, listening with your eyes means you notice the body language, the pain or the enthusiasm that only the body can express. Lastly, listening with your heart brings it all together. This is where you hear the intention, the words not spoken and the desire or need for an answer.
Start Off On the Right Foot. The beginning of your day is critical – and so it is for your children. They need to know someone thinks it’s important they woke up that day. Tell them, “I love seeing you in the morning.” Or “You look great this morning!”
Getting up an extra 30 minutes to allow time for a breakfast conversation about what is important to your child will stay with them as they get on the bus or walk through the school doors. This is also the best time to give them your most heartfelt endearing advice and encouragement. Advice they will remember for many years.
Use Your Arms. Hugs never go out of style. Touch is the best non-verbal communication that resonates with every child – young or old. Feeling the squeeze of a parent’s arms sends the message, “You are mine, loved and everything will be okay.” Hugs are for all times; excitement, celebration, comfort, tears, anger and just because.
