Were launching How I Parent, a new Offspring column inspired by LifehackersHow I Workseries.
Theres no one-size-fits-all template for parentingheres how some are making it work.
I started my career a little bit later than most.
My husband and I were really lucky, fertility-wise, and I got pregnant the first month we tried.
Since then, I have experienced a promotion, pregnancy, maternity leave and another baby.
We have a lot of flexibility and autonomy in our work hours.
Take us through your morning routine.
What are your best tricks forgetting your kids out the door?
Honestly, its chaos.
We venture to have a routine but it doesnt always work.
Breakfast for them is usually a yogurt pouch and some dry cereal or a cereal bar.
How do you divide household and childcare responsibilities between you and your partner?
Im really lucky to have my husband.
Hes a very involved father and partner.
This time of year, I work 50-60 hours a week.
If everything goes to plan, I can pretty much come home and fall into bed.
Also, I am in the office most Saturday mornings during busy season.
Household chores really only happen when the kids are asleep or at school.
This weekly check-in helps ensure weve got everything covered.
How much outside help do you get as a parent?
We also have curbside grocery pickup at our local grocery store, which is a lifesaver.
What are the gadgets, apps or tools you rely on?
Google calendarswe have about six between my husband and I.
We track family parties, doctors appointments, social events and bills.
We use Facebook video chat on nights when one of us works late or travels.
It allows us to see the kids and say goodnight every night.
Snapchat allows us to share quick photos and videos of the kids.
Has becoming a parent changed the way you work?
Ive had to learn how to work smarter and not longer.
How do you decompress?
I also venture to run 2-3 times a week before my kids wake up.
Whats been your proudest moment as a working parent?
Considering I feel like a hot mess 97% of the time, that meant a lot.
Also, earning my CPA license.
I walked across the stage seven months pregnant to obtain my license after a ton of hard work.
My husband, mom, grandfather and in-laws were all there to celebrate.
I will hold onto that moment for a while.
What moment are you least proud of?
He looked at me with big tears in his eyes and asked where his basket was.
I was heartbroken and crushed.
Id been so busy with work I didnt have time to pick one up for him.
What do you want your kids to learn from your example?
That its okay to be enough.
Im not a Pinterest mom.
Ill probably never be the class mom.
But I care and I attempt to put my family first.
Im a really strong employee, but, I probably wont ever be a superstar, and thats okay.
Also, I want them to know that gendered roles are bullshit.
Whats the hardest part about being a working parent?
The hoursits really like working two full-time jobs.
Most of my peers at work are younger and do not have children.
I have a never-ending to-do list.
Whats your favorite part of the day?
Early in the morning, when my son first wakes up.
Its our special time.
Thats when I know Im doing something right.
I cant wait till my daughter is older and we can build those bonds, too.
Whats the one thing you would tell other working parents?
Balance wont always be 50/50.
Some days, you have to be more family.
Other days, you have to be more work.
My goal is to have it all balance on average.
People always say it will get easier, but I dont think thats the truth.
