HOW TO COPE AS WORKING PARENTS

Sometimes ago, a friend shared a funny story of how his parent forgot to pick him up in school, only for him to get home to meet both of them watching television. According to him, they apologised, but the dad and mum also fought each other that day. Both of them thought the other person had made arrangements for the boy. They sat down thinking the boy was in the room.

In this era where everybody has a career or aspiring to have one, it takes a more deliberate effort to be responsible as a parent, especially beyond finance. Time is one asset that is in short supply. Mental  and emotional stability is another thing that gets easily drained with many goal driven activities. In such a scenario, what do working parents have to prioritize?

I strongly believe that a significant input into the fast degrading society that we have is the unavailability of parent to rightly guide or mentor their children. Financial presence is great, but raising a great child into a great adult is going to require more than money. Perhaps we must sit to review what an ideal home for parenting should look like. While it may be difficult for all to attain an ideal home, at least we will have something to work with.

My wife and I have had to struggle with our clashing work schedules and this greatly reduce the time we spend with our child. I feel guilty sometimes about this, but our jobs help sort out a lot issues. Sacrifices have to be made by both parties in being physically available to children. The sacrifice must not be pushed to women at all times. Doing this gives a sense of belonging to all parties. Relationship itself is a sacrifice and now that kids are part of it, the demand is greater.

I believe every family must find a solution most suitable to them. What works for a family may not work for another, but we can always compare notes and adapt the recommendation that seems okay for us. However, a good starting point will be to set family priorities and discuss the prices both parties are willing to pay.