For many working parents, the boundaries between work and home life are increasingly blurred. The key is maximizing productivity within a 24-hour day, regardless of location. Whether it’s paying bills during a lunch break at the office or responding to work emails at home while waiting for dinner to start, time management is crucial to making room for what truly matters.

The morning rush to get out the door without tears becomes a daily victory before 8 a.m. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on getting out of the house with a smile and ensuring your child is content. If that means letting them sleep in their school clothes to avoid a morning meltdown, then embrace the ingenuity in unconventional solutions.

Equip yourself with the tools to tackle whatever comes your way. For me, it’s a handbag filled with essentials—treats that work wonders both in the office and out, an instant thermometer, and a pair of emergency high heels for those unexpected moments.

Trust your instincts, and don’t second-guess yourself later. If you’ve spent days preparing for an important meeting but the school nurse calls about a minor injury, there’s no definitive right or wrong decision. Whether you decide to skip the meeting or suggest an ice pack and send your child back to class, trust your gut and move forward. Let go of any doubts and keep going.

Remember, it’s all about survival and maintaining your sense of humor. Those hectic days will eventually pass, and in a few years, you’ll look back and marvel at how quickly time flew by.

Achieving a healthy work-life balance depends largely on the company you work for. Seek opportunities with organizations that value and offer flexible work practices. As a Recruitment Consultant at HERO Recruitment, I’m fortunate to work a four-day week, giving me the balance I need.

At HERO Recruitment, I partner with top employers across Ireland—from Galway and Limerick to Cork and Dublin—offering excellent job opportunities. If you’re seeking that elusive balance with a reputable company, let’s connect. I’d love to help you find the right fit. Call me at +353 91 730 022.

Deirdre Finnerty, Winner of Recruiter of the Year 2015 & a Thriving Working Parent!

HERO Recruitment - Cork - Galway - Dublin +353 91 730 022