Thatās almost a full day gone during school days for many kids of working parents. Wake them up, rush them out, drop them off before heading to work, and by the time we reunite again⦠the day is almost ending already. š®āšØ
Sometimes I really wonder, how many actual hours do we truly spend with our children dailyā ā
Because of some changes in life, I realised flexibility is something I really need. When Little Bae is unwell, I want to be able to put things aside and care for her without constantly worrying about work piling up. When she asks me to play, I donāt want to always reply ālater mummy busy.ā Missing her little milestones is something I personally struggle to accept, because kids donāt stay small forever š„¹
But reality is also hard right?
When we take leave, work piles up. When we spend time playing, there are still responsibilities waiting. And many times we tell ourselves, ānext time Iāll be there more.ā
But how long do we want to keep waiting? And how long can our little ones wait for us while growing up so quickly?
My one reason why I started building something on the side. Not because I want luxury, but because I wanted more choices, flexibility, and time freedom for my family in the future.
If flexibility mattered to you too, what kind of change would you want for your family life? āØ
... Read moreAs a fellow working parent, Iāve often felt the same challenges described in this routine. The struggle to balance work commitments with the desire to be fully present for our children is real and deeply personal. For me, the journey toward achieving flexibility started with small but intentional shiftsāsetting boundaries like defined work hours and using technology to better organize my day.
I also found that communicating openly with employers and colleagues about the need for flexibility helped create a more understanding environment. When my child was sick, having the option to work from home or adjust hours eased the constant worry about falling behind at work while caring for them.
Beyond logistics, itās the emotional presence that counts. Even short, quality moments spent playing or simply listening can create strong bonds. Iāve learned to prioritize these micro-moments, ensuring that when I say āIām here now,ā it really means my attention is fully with my child.
Building something on the side, as mentioned, resonates with me too. Itās not always about financial gaināitās about reclaiming time and choices to nurture our families as they grow. Flexibility empowers us to not miss those priceless milestones and reduces the guilt of working parenthood.
Incorporating these changes gradually can transform the feeling of rushing through the day into one of meaningful connection, showing our children that they're the priority even amidst the busiest schedules.