Part One: Survival Basics
Being a working mom has it’s highs and lows and if I’m being totally honest, work travel falls firmly in both camps simultaneously for me.
I count business trips as a high because I love to visit different cities and have the opportunity to change up my environment. Traveling for work also usually means that I will end up with more alone time than I typically can find at home. Stolen moments of quiet time on airplanes, where I am writing this now, have recently become a little treat for me. Wondering why I look so happy in this pic? I’m unreachable, no one needs me for a few hours and I can spend that time filling my cup with a podcast, a book or the opportunity to turn some of my thoughts into words on a screen. And also– wine. Usually, at some point during the trip there is wine.
On the flip side of all those fabulous perks is the reality that I’m leaving my family at home to fend for themselves and no matter how many times I do it, I just don’t 100% love how that feels. Part of it is physically missing them and their sweet snuggles. Another part is dealing with the mom guilt of missing moments with them. Lastly, I think it’s a little hard to admit to myself that they will be just fine without me for THREE WHOLE DAYS. I mean, how is that possible??
I’ve been navigating the dynamics of being a working mom who’s career requires regular travel for the past 5 years. Here are a few things that help me stay focused on the positive and power through the moments I might feel a bit homesick.
Know your Limits
This is always good advice but specifically I’m talking about number of days away. I have a fairly firm limit when my kids are small– I don’t stay away more than two nights. Yes, I’ve had to break my own rule occasionally based on business needs but having the goal of keeping trips to 72 hours has helped me strike a balance. This boundary is based on a couple of things. I’ve noticed that I don’t typically contribute at my highest level beyond that time frame when I’m away from my family. Honestly, I find that I tend to get a little down when I go much longer so this has been key not only for work/life balance but also for prioritizing self-care. Also, I can usually fit 95% of my projects or events in to three days and in my book 95% is an A+. And for all the hats we are wearing, and A+ is pretty damn good. Just saying.
Make Tech Work for You
There is this amazing app, not sure if you’ve heard of it, it’s called FaceTime. I’m kidding. Of course you’ve heard of FaceTime, but I’m always shocked at how few people use this type of technology to connect with their loved ones while away from home. Talking on the phone is great but there is something about being face to face with your people. As Evie gets bigger, I find our video chats to be something we each rely on. In fact, when I was leaving for this trip, she was saying that she was going to miss me but instantly cheered up when she remembered that we could FaceTime. Even my 11-month-old gave me a smile during our last chat which was enough to get me through another day of what otherwise could have felt like a grueling schedule!
Add a Little Luxury
You don’t have to spend a bunch of money to sneak a little you-time into your travels. Throw that masque you’ve been meaning to try in your suitcase. When you get to your hotel, slap that baby on while you watch three episodes of Fixer Upper in a row, with no one saying “Mom” over and over. Then, go to bed whenever you feel like it. When you wake up in the morning, celebrate the fact that you only need to get yourself ready. Just you. Ahhhh… simple pleasures!
Do you have a tried and true work travel survival tip? Leave a comment to share!