Unfortunately, once a woman leaves the workforce, her choices are severely limited. Approximately only 40 percent women who take time off to raise kids will find full-time work again.
Additionally, studies show that when one partner quits the workforce to stay at home, it affects the relationship dramatically; mostly in a negative way. To combat this, Samantha Ettus, work/life balance expert, advises to do a daily check in, just the two of you, for at least 20 minutes per day.
Sam's new book, The Pie Life: A Guilt-Free Recipe For Success and Satisfaction, discusses how you can (and should) stay involved in six or seven areas of life, instead of just one or two. These include health, friends, relationship, career, hobbies, and community. Make a goal for each slice of your life, and have a few bites of each of those slices on a daily or weekly basis.
Sam also offers these nuggets of guidance:
- Enlist the help of a supportive partner.
- Involve your kids as much as possible.
- Practice efficient time management.
- Recognize that friends are vital to your health.
- Understand that individuals with hobbies are far more productive at work.