Arrange a special outing with Dad. Eating out! Ice skating! Going to see a movie! Sometimes I think my kids like it when I go away because Scott will often try to do something a little special or different that is just for them.
Create something that happens only when you are away--like a living room sleepover or watching a movie with snacks after dinner. Moments like these can create lasting memories that your children will cherish for many years.
I know it is not always easy to do since often your spouse or partner is also working full-time. This tip is not intended to create additional stress or expectation--just an opportunity to make the time special.
Get engrossed in your work: Haven't we all heard the saying that you are most productive when you are most busy? You have made the decision to work, so now--get busy!
In the early years, my best days were the ones when I was slammed with work. I would feel productive and the hours would just fly by. When the day's end came, I was ready to take a break and was truly looking forward to seeing my kids.
Take these hours spent away from your children and put them to good use. Get productive, get promoted, and feel good about your contributions outside of mothering. Getting engrossed in work allows you to get away from focusing on your fears. This, in turn, helps reduce your guilt and anxiety, while also helping you feel more empowered and confident.
Do something you couldn't do at home. When I am not on the road, the last thing I want to do is take more time away from my family to sit in a nail or hair salon for several hours. (Unfortunately, I am learning that the amount of time dedicated to monthly upkeep is increasing as I get older.) And even though I don't want to waste time at home on these things, business trips allow me to pamper myself and expend some time on things I wouldn't normally do.
Some other ideas are watching entertaining TV, bringing along a good book, or ordering a chick flick that your husband didn't want to watch. Or indulge in some mindless entertainment, which I find helps make my time away much easier. (The reality show Wife Swap is my favorite.)
One of my better uses of time on the road was the creation of this book. Those evenings I spent in hotels were put to great use as I pursued something important to me outside of work--reaching other working mothers. (There was plenty of Wife Swap watching, too.)
Whether it's pulling out your laptop to write a book or simply watching mindless TV, think of something you wouldn't normally make time for at home and find a way to do it on the road.
Samantha Knowles is the author of Working Mom Reviews. To learn how to eat well, check out 1000 paleo recipes review To learn how to lose weight, check out 4 cycle fat loss review
