Like some of you, as a family of four, we have gone through lots of changes in the last couple of years. Just to name a few, we have moved countries, we have lived in different houses and consequently, we have moved schools and I’ve taken a career break. However, and to my great surprise, kids have adjusted so well and they have taken the changes in such a positive and creative way, that I would like to share today five lessons I have learned from them that apply not only to moving cities or countries but for any important change in life like returning to work after a long career break or starting a new career in a different field after maternity leave.
1. Changes are good, and sometimes, necessary
As adults, we feel better within our comfort zone, especially if we have a young family. For someone who loves routines as I do, changes are not always happily welcome. But from the experience we have had the last couple of years, I have to say that changes are good, and sometimes, necessary to bring new things into our lives, and they help us to become stronger and more creative and to be thankful for the things we have. In their innocent way, my kids have shown me that attitude matters the most, and when you welcome changes in your life, everything works out in a good way. I used to love changes before I became a mother, but with the responsibilities that a family brings, it didn’t sound that interesting anymore. Until now. Changes for mums can be anything from quitting a job, start working from home, to upskilling or reskilling through a retraining course.
2. Let’s not forget to see the world through a child’s eyes
One of the boring things about growing up is losing the capacity of wondering about little things, getting excited, and enjoying the most simple moments. By being a mum, we have the fortune to be kids again and to enjoy things by being curious and creative. New landscapes, new friends, plans, relatives around… Can it be any more exciting for a kid? You can apply the same concept to anything new you decide to start like a new business as a female entrepreneur!
3. Life is not black or white
The weather plays an important part in life in the UK and can affect not only your plans but also your mood! We used to live in a city with amazing weather where the sun was always out, but unfortunately, that is not everything you need, is it? Kids had the chance to see snow for the very first time and they will keep that memory forever. New pink gloves? Amazing. Welly boots with his favourite superhero? the highlight of the day. There are different shades of grey in every experience, and things are not black or white. Even though you may experience some mixed feelings about taking a career break to look after your little ones, remember to feel grateful for every precious moment you can enjoy with them.
4. Everything is a matter of time
I remembered when my first child was born, I had a mix of feelings between excitement and panic for the first two months (even though my husband and I were a team from the first day, I remembered asking my mum to stay with me as much as she could). Thinking back about those days, I truly believe that everything is a matter of time, of getting your way around things, adjusting, and finding your path. Even if the change seems chaotic at the beginning, just give it time, and everything will get better. It is so true when it comes to making decisions such as starting to work again, either in a full-time position or a part-time job, but if you believe that the benefits of returning to work are what you have been looking for, don’t hesitate!
5. Family is what matters the most
s long as we are together, things will work out the best possible way. Friends will always be there and we will be able to count on them at any time, but home is where your family is. Kids have shown us that by being together, everything is possible.
What is the most important lesson your kid has taught you recently?
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