Most days at the office, I find myself glancing at that one colleague who always appears impeccably put together—perfectly styled hair, polished attire, and an unwavering commitment to “business casual.” Meanwhile, I wrestle with the temptation to let every day be a laid-back one, and sometimes I give in. I often tell myself, “She must not have kids.” But deep down, I know she does.
I keep waiting for the day when I can get ready without the constant interruptions of little ones demanding my attention, crying, or climbing onto my vanity. Until that day arrives, I, along with countless other working moms with early risers, navigate these everyday struggles:
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Breakfast Dilemmas
You’d think that waking up at 5 AM would give enough time for a wholesome breakfast. But with the kids scheduled to eat at daycare, do they really need two meals? Instead, I trade cooking for quick snacks like crackers, nutrition bars, or even chocolate—definitely easier than taking the time to make breakfast. After all, anything that buys me a moment of peace to fix my hair is worth it! -
Hair Woes
The elusive “just right” look I dream about is often just a messy bun, which I sport two or three days a week. It’s trendy, right? Who needs to wash their hair when there’s dry shampoo? On the rare occasion I do style my hair, I’m met with the question, “Did you get a haircut?” Nope! Just showered for the first time in days. -
Hygiene Challenges
Speaking of showers, the idea of taking one can feel overwhelming. Do I wake up even earlier, or just scrape by with dry shampoo for one more day? Showering with the kids is a circus, complete with water wars and awkward questions about my body. So, it’s another day of the messy bun and extra deodorant for me. -
Caffeine Dependence
For coffee aficionados, waking up early means a chance to savor that first cup before heading out. However, the headache from skipping it, spilling it, or forgetting it is a real struggle. And let’s not even talk about coffee breath—nobody wants to be “that” coworker. But with energetic early risers, the risk is worth it. Bring on the mints! -
Screen Time Management
By the time it’s 7 AM, my kids have often maxed out their screen time. With both of them up since 5 AM, some TV time gives me a few precious minutes to rest. But the moment I try to close my eyes, my four-year-old demands my attention: “Watch this, Mom!” Am I ruining their brains? I sure hope not! -
The Casual Friday Trap
Ah, Casual Friday—the day when I can dress like I belong. But let’s be honest, my casual look happens at least three to four times a week. Jeans? Check. Comfy hoodie or T-shirt? Check. Sneakers or cozy boots? You bet. It’s a daily routine of casual attire! Someday, my kids will sleep in, and I can finally pretend to be a professional. -
Bribery as a Survival Tool
I’d do just about anything for one more minute of sleep—bribing my kids with toys, sweets, or outings. I’ve even resorted to using a “foolproof” stoplight alarm clock, promising rewards if they sleep in until the light turns green. It’s not pretty, but when you’re sleep-deprived, desperate measures are on the table! -
The Struggle to Get Out of Bed
Simply getting out of bed can feel monumental! This challenge seems to trigger all the others. If I could just muster the willpower to rise, I could whip up breakfast, do my hair, shower, and even engage my kids in brain-boosting activities. But instead, I find myself stuck in denial about their early rising habits. -
Living in Denial
The most significant struggle is the denial that comes with being a working mom of early risers. People without early-bird kids often suggest simply going to bed earlier. Believe me, I’ve thought about it, but I can’t help but crave a little “me time” after the kiddos are asleep. Thus begins the vicious cycle of late nights and early mornings.
To all the working moms out there whose children wake them at the crack of dawn, you’re not alone! Here’s to navigating motherhood, often in casual clothes and with a messy bun.
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Summary
Working moms of early risers face a variety of challenges, from breakfast dilemmas and hygiene struggles to screen time management and the constant battle to get out of bed. The reality of navigating a professional life alongside energetic children can lead to creative solutions and the occasional reliance on bribery. Despite the struggles, there’s a camaraderie among moms in similar situations, reminding us that we’re all in this together.