Try asking an average homemaker what they think about a domestic help and you can be sure that the response will be– they are necessary evils. I am still amazed as to how something evil can be necessary. We have heard different stories of domestic helps looting their boss’ houses, collaborating with armed robbers and kidnappers and some even go as far as seducing the men of the house. We all pray that such will not be our portion (Amen). Nevertheless, these issues are drawing nearer on a daily basis and if we do not develop means of coping without domestic helps……well God forbid.
Let me say that I understand that the dynamics of life has changed – both men and women have to fend for the family and yet the role of the ‘family caretaker’ primarily lies with the mother. Also, the same cap cannot fit everybody…thus for those that are lucky to find domestic helps that are just like family, lucky you!!! But for others…well you may just try the tips below, who knows, you may be glad you did.
Here they are:
Be determined –Your determination will keep you going on those very tough days when you want to give up and give into getting a help. Remembering that tough times do not last but tough people do will help at such times.
Be organized and disciplined- I have come to realize that I am a lot more overwhelmed when things are not where they are meant to be. Clothes lying around, lots of dirty dishes in the sink, undone laundry etc Little tricks like putting your clothes in the laundry basket as you remove them, returning your shoes to the shoe rack after cleaning them on a daily basis , washing up your plate as soon as you finish eating, wiping up spilled food or water as they occur, dusting once you notice etc may help to reduce the workload. Sometimes, the thought of the work that needs to be done, is actually more daunting than doing the tasks itself.
Invest in household appliances – Who says you cannot get a washing machine, dish washer, rice steamer , steam mops etc. I am really amazed at the improvement in household technology these days. I think that with discipline and determination, one can get things done a lot easier and faster.
Planning – There will be some crazy days no doubt!!! There will be weekends when there will be back to back owambes, deadlines to meet at work, visit to the salon or spa etc. On such weekends, you can be sure that housechores will be the last thing on your mind. But if you have been organized and have planned adequately for this change in weekly event, you can be sure that you will get by without hitch.
Know when to take a break – When you feel too tired, please rest!!! Nothing says some chores cannot be postponed. But this will only work if combined with all the other suggestions.
Get help in other ways –You can outsource house chores such as weekly cleanings and laundry (or use a professional drycleaner). Also, there are several businesses that offer professional house cleaning and fumigation services. This can be done on an occasional basis.
And for the kids – there are a lot of crèches that offer childcare services for working mothers. You have help for the kids from 7am to 7pm. Moreso, schools now offer after school care where the kids are assisted with their home works and participate in different activities pending when you finish from work.
Pray for strength – I know this should have been the first point but I saved the best for last. Pray everyday for God to give you that inner strength to cope with everything that you need to deal with. And most importantly, I have heard that some men typically leave the housechores to the women. We ladies know the only person whom we can report them to, to touch their hearts to help us out.
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