On a recent Monday, at the start of a super-busy work week for me, one of my mom friends, Heather, got my daughter from school and kept her into the evening. On Tuesday, another mom friend, Nicolle, drove my son to his 5:45PM basketball practice. On Wednesday, Tricia handled the cooking-class-to-home carpool. On Thursday, Sarah chaperoned both of our daughters at skating. And, on Friday, Rebecca helped me think through a tricky situation at the office.
Working Parents Need a “Parenting Posse”
Four steps to building your network.
March 04, 2020
Summary.
Balancing a career and a family is not easy. But it’s not something you and your partner (if you have one) must do on your own. You need to create a parenting posse — moms and dads at your kids’ school, in your community, and at the office who become a circle of support. How do you build one and use it effectively? First, by engaging. Don’t think you’re too busy to make friends. Second, by offering help. The smallest favor will generate a virtuous circle of giving. Third, by being willing to ask for help. This can feel uncomfortable, but you’d be surprised at how keen people are to offer assistance. Last, by learning from others. Set up regular check-ins to ask for advice.