42 Rules for Working Moms: Rules Are Meant to Be Broken

The Personal Nature of Parenting

Every family is different, and so is every working mom. What keeps one mom sane might drive another crazy. The key is to understand your own needs and those of your family.

The Struggle for Sleep

One of the most common challenges for new parents is sleep deprivation. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 70% of children under the age of 10 experience some type of sleep problem. My own experience was no different. When my daughter was nine months old, I had returned to work full-time and hadn't had a full night's sleep since she was born. I tried every method from "cry it out" to "silent return to sleep," but nothing worked.

Seeking Help

Desperate for a solution, I turned to online chat rooms and bulletin boards. I was a wreck, my husband was a wreck, and our daughter seemed unaffected, taking multiple naps during the day. My pediatrician's advice was simple but profound: "Stop reading all that stuff." He emphasized that every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another.

Finding What Works for You

When my daughter transitioned to a "big-girl" bed, I found that lying down with her until she fell asleep worked best for us, even if it meant I often fell asleep too. This approach might not work for everyone, but it was a solution that fit our family's needs.

Learning from Experience

When my second daughter was born, I was eager to apply the lessons I had learned. However, I quickly realized that each child is unique, and what worked for one might not work for another. This experience taught me that there are no absolutes in parenting.

Different Styles, Different Solutions

My sister and I have very different parenting styles. I am organized and schedule-driven, while she is more intuitive and flexible. Both approaches have their merits, and both of our children are happy and well-adjusted.

The Importance of Flexibility

While I have always adhered to strict schedules, I am now teaching my children the importance of flexibility. My sister's more relaxed approach has also proven successful, showing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

The Value of Shared Experiences

The ideas shared in this article are meant to offer guidance and inspiration. Some may work for you, while others may not. The key is to take what resonates with you and adapt it to fit your family's unique needs.

Breaking the Rules

Parenting is not about following a strict set of rules. It's about learning from others, experimenting with different approaches, and finding what works best for you. Sometimes, the best solutions come from breaking the rules and creating your own.

Conclusion

In the end, the journey of working motherhood is a personal one. By understanding your own needs and those of your family, you can create a balanced and fulfilling life. Remember, the best rules are the ones you make for yourself.

Sources:

1. National Sleep Foundation
2. American Academy of Pediatrics

© 2023 Laura Lowell