Balancing Parenting and Advocacy: A Single Mom’s Guide

Navigating the demands of parenting while advocating for change can be challenging but deeply rewarding. As a single mother running for school board, I’ve learned firsthand how to balance these responsibilities. For instance, I often find myself juggling school board meetings with my child's soccer games. Here’s a glimpse into my experience and some tips that might help others in similar situations:

• Prioritize and Plan: Effective time management is crucial. I create a structured schedule and prioritize tasks to make sure I meet my responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed.

• Communicate Openly: I’m transparent with my child about my campaign and its demands, and I maintain open communication with my campaign team and supporters. This open dialogue creates a sense of inclusion and community, making the journey more manageable.

• Leverage Your Support Network: I seek help from family, friends, and community members to manage my time and responsibilities better.

• Set Boundaries: I establish clear boundaries between my personal and professional life to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

• Practice Self-Care: Taking time for relaxation and hobbies is essential for sustaining my energy and well-being.

• Embrace Flexibility: I stay adaptable and ready to adjust my plans to handle unexpected challenges. It's important to remember that setbacks are a part of any journey, and it's okay to take a step back and reassess when things don't go as planned.

• Stay Focused on Your Goals: I remind myself of the positive impact I aim to make to stay motivated and balanced.

Balancing parenting and advocacy as a single mom running for school board is challenging, but with careful planning, support, and self-care, it's not just a dream, it's a reality. It’s possible to manage both effectively. Thank you for joining me on this journey – together, we can make a difference!