Hello parents, grandparents and caretakers of the Illawarra

19 September 2022

Hello parents, grandparents and caretakers of the Illawarra,

Balancing being a parent and work is really difficult. I don't believe in work/life balance as a parent. I genuinely feel like one aspect of your life will suffer at various points in your life, year and day. The thing that you can hold onto is that you're not alone.

A few must-reads if you ever find yourself wondering if anyone else isn't coping include Mia Freedman's Work Strife Balance and Annabel Crabb's The Wife Drought.

I have three little ones aged 5, 3 and 1 and until recently I had a job in Sydney four days a week. I know this term will frustrate my partner but the mental load is real and a daily struggle. Trying to balance the household admin on top of parenting and trying to be successful at work was too much for me. I quit, just this year. Now I work freelancing as a communications specialist, picking up projects when I can. You can read more about my decision to quit work here.

It's changed my life. Yes, I am still very busy, stressed and probably not the best mum I could be (is anyone?), but I feel more in control of my life. I set the pace and lean into work when I can and want to.

So, if you're thinking of taking the leap into your own business, quiet quitting, choosing a slower role or cutting down days – do it. Even if it's just for the rest of the year. Your mind, body and family will thank you for it.

See you out there,

Kasey Simpson, The Monday Editor

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