Do you know how to balance work and family? Running a business or pursuing a career can be incredibly rewarding. At the same time, it can create conflict for many mothers and fathers who struggle to strike a balance between work and family.

How to Balance Work and Family

Even if you have a fast-paced career or run your own business, it is possible to find the right balance between the two. How can it be done? By using the following tips to guide you.

Know that You Cannot do it All

Perhaps the hardest part is just admitting to yourself that you cannot do everything. Yes, you can have your career and still spend plenty of time with your family. However, you might not be able to bake for the bake sale, sew the costume, and throw the ultimate birthday party. Keep your top priorities and be willing to let the other things go.

Live by The Schedule and Schedule in Down Time

The easiest way to manage your time is to create a schedule. And don’t leave your down time open; schedule it in like you would any important activity. Don’t think it is silly to put cuddling on the couch on your schedule or baking with the kids; these moments matter, these times are just as important as anything else on your calendar. And don’t be afraid to unplug or ignore during this time. You wouldn’t step away from an important meeting to answer an email, would you?

Keep it Simple

It can be tempting to fill your kids schedule—and, therefore, yours—with fun activities. But if you get into too many different activities, you will be stretching yourself thin. It is better to opt for one after school activity a week and keep the rest of the time for your family. When your downtime ends up stressing you out, it affects the whole family.

Cut out the Distractions

A big pitfall for most of us is that we waste our down time in front of screens, filling our lives with white noise rather than the things that are meaningful. Set an hour each evening when the household is unplugged and you will find it quite easy to get in quality time with your family.