In the latest episode of the Working Mumma podcast, I speak with Laura Press, a relationship counsellor and mother of three, to delve into the complexities of balancing work, family, and self-care. Laura offers a wealth of practical strategies for managing the mental load of working motherhood and maintaining a strong relationship with your partner after having a baby. Here are some of the key takeaways from our conversation, highlighting effective communication techniques, the importance of self-care, and how to set standards and expectations within your family.

 Set Standards and Expectations

Laura emphasizes the importance of setting clear standards and expectations within the family. This involves open discussions with your partner and children about what family life looks like now that you’re balancing work and home responsibilities. Establishing these standards helps reduce misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

Effective Communication is Key

Communication is a cornerstone of any healthy relationship, and Laura stresses its significance in managing the mental load. She advises that couples should communicate their needs, expectations, and feelings openly. One practical tip is to ask deeper questions, such as, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What challenges did you face today?” This encourages more meaningful conversations and helps partners support each other better.

Self-Care is Essential

Laura highlights that self-care is crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship and overall well-being. For her, morning walks and occasional baths are rejuvenating practices that help her reset and come back to her family with renewed energy. She underscores that taking time for oneself allows individuals to give more to their relationships and families.

Prioritize Relationship Check-Ins

Regular check-ins with your partner are vital for maintaining a strong connection. Laura suggests asking yourself questions like, “Are we connected most of the time?” and “Do we show affection and communicate well?” These self-reflective questions can help identify areas that may need attention and ensure that both partners are happy and supported.

Set Boundaries and Say No

It’s important to establish boundaries and feel comfortable saying no when necessary. Laura mentions that in a healthy relationship, both partners need to be able to express their limits and respect each other’s boundaries. This helps prevent burnout and resentment, allowing for a more harmonious family dynamic.

Support Through Changes

Life is full of ebbs and flows, and Laura advises couples to support each other through these changes. This includes pausing and breathing when things get hectic and finding ways to show support, whether it’s taking turns with childcare or simply being there for each other during tough times.

Conflict Resolution Techniques

When conflicts arise, Laura suggests using repair statements like, “I’m sorry for my part in this. I want to fix this, but we can talk about it later.” This approach acknowledges the issue while also affirming your commitment to resolving it, keeping the connection intact even during disagreements.

Personal Growth and Evolving Roles

Laura points out that both partners in a relationship are constantly growing and evolving. Recognizing this evolution and adapting to it can strengthen the relationship. Understanding each other’s backgrounds and role models also helps in navigating differences in parenting styles and relationship expectations.

Practical Self-Care Tips

For Laura, self-care includes morning walks and occasional baths. She finds that these activities help her reset and return to her family with more energy and patience. Finding personal self-care routines that work for you is essential in maintaining your well-being.

Plan Time Together

Finally, Laura and her husband prioritize spending time together, whether it’s through short getaways or simple backyard picnics. These moments help them reconnect and strengthen their bond, providing a solid foundation for their family.

Balancing work, family, and self-care is no easy feat, but with practical strategies and effective communication, it’s possible to navigate these challenges successfully. Laura Press’s insights offer valuable guidance for working mums striving to maintain a strong relationship and manage the mental load of motherhood. Remember, setting standards, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining open communication are key to creating a harmonious family life.

For more insights and practical tips, listen to the full episode of the Working Mumma podcast with Laura Press.

Connect with Laura via her website laurapresscounselling.com.au or via Instagram @laurapresscounselling

Listen to the podcast episode now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify