I’m working very hard on creating some semblance of moderation in my life. I tend to do everything in excess. I don’t want one glass of wine (I want the whole bottle), I’m a longstanding member of the clean plate club, and I rarely say no to opportunities that arise at work or as a parent. I’m a people pleaser who likes to stay active.
Walking this path leads to burnout. Coming off 2020, where life was the simplest I’ve known as a parent, to 2021, where things got busy again, to the present day, I know I need to find a way to set boundaries for what I can and cannot take on. It’s the only way I can practice moderation and protect my peace.
Work
I love my career in real estate; however, I’m admittedly not trying to be “Million Dollar Listing,” at least not just yet. I often work with one or two clients at a time. This allows me to be their person 100% and completely available to handle all the ups and downs of a real estate transaction. I tell my clients I sleep from 11 p.m. – 6 a.m., and I am there for them anytime other than that. Am I crazy not to be chasing clients in this wild market…maybe? Would I turn down a client in need? Never. The way I conduct business allows me to be the best I can be at work and creates a successful work-life balance.
Volunteering
My daughter attends a school that allows parents past the parking lot, and for that, I rejoice. It also comes with a ton of volunteering opportunities. I was excited to have some extra free time on the days that my children were all at school, but taking on new volunteer obligations made that time quickly diminish. I volunteer when I can, I have been honest about the times that I cannot, and I choose to volunteer when I have the most facetime with my daughter.
Family Activities
I am grateful for the in-person events and activities that are available. That leaves a long list of things to keep us busy balancing downtime and family fun. I carefully select what events will be the most memorable or source what is the most important to my children.
After School
My children would be involved in everything if they could. One child sees what another is doing and asks to join as well. My head and bank account would explode if everyone were enrolled in everything they wanted to do. We allow them to pick one fall and one spring activity, and one of my daughters practices dance throughout the year.
I Try Not To Say No To…
Girls’ Night Out: My husband is home at 6 p.m., and I’m happy to meet anytime/anywhere after that!
Date Nights: I am a creature of routine, and by 8 p.m., after doing work and all that comes with being a mom, I’m done. It’s nice to create a time to spend together to connect away from the house and children.
Family Time: It’s the most important thing to my children. If they ask for it, I will try to make it happen (within reason). We won’t be going to Disney again this year, but I’ll consider bowling on the weekend.
, I’m a longstanding member of the clean plate club, and I rarely say no to opportunities that arise at work or as a parent. I’m a people pleaser who likes to stay active.){kind=link}