Time Efficiency Top tips for the Working Mom

Being a working mom can be extremely stressful and you have a lot of balls juggling at all times. A Mom does tend to be the default parent in the sense of worrying about the kid’s packed lunches, events and goings on at school and clubs, making sure they have their dental and doctor visits when needed as well as looking after them when they are sick. This can go along with having a job and also maintaining the house, especially those single Moms who do it all alone.

Unfortunately with some jobs, especially when it is more of a career-focused one, the work can sometimes come home with you and the little time you have with your children or for yourself can be limited. The best and most rewarding trait for these types of women is to be organised and efficient. If you can take shortcuts or do things differently to give you more time it can make the world of difference.

Plan Ahead And Schedule Things In

The first thing you should be doing if you aren’t already is having a plan and schedule, whether it is daily, monthly or weekly. Whatever works best for you. You can get a physical one if that is what suits you better but you can also get online and shared online calendars. Shared ones are perfect for colleagues, family members and other people who may be in your life a lot from work projects to babysitting the kids. The important thing is to schedule absolutely everything, things like:

Doctors appointments
Dentist appointments
School events
Non-uniform days at school
Visiting family
Meeting with friends
Work meetings
Work events
If you need to call a plumber
Children’s playdates
Window cleaner visits

If you have an online calendar or one on your phone you can schedule all of these in and set them to remind you on the day or just before it happens. That way you can be completely in control and won’t be forgetting anything.

Kitchen Appliances For Speeding Things Up

We can end up spending a lot of time in the kitchen with all the chores and jobs to do in there. You can get a few things in your kitchen to give you more free time at the end of the day so you can spend that quality time with your family. The first thing is to get an Air Fryer. They are extremely popular now but the best thing is that it cooks things a lot quicker. The same with Instant Pot. Having these things will make your home-cooked meals a lot faster so you don’t have to waste money on takeout after a long day at work. The other thing is to get a dishwasher. Washing up is such a mundane task and you can simply get a dishwasher to load and do it while you sleep. Loading and unloading is a great first chore to give the kids too. Just make sure you look after it. So if the dishwasher isn’t drying, make sure you look into it and get it fixed right.

Batch Cook And Meal Plan

Saving time cooking is one of the best things you can do and batch cooking and meal planning are the way forward. It won’t only save you time but it will also make sure you are being healthy and having a variety of meals while reducing the amount of waste you have in your home. If you spend an afternoon on the weekend preparing and cooking up a big batch of meals to have throughout the week then all you need to do when you get home from work is pop them in the oven or the microwave and sit down to a delicious home-cooked meal with your family. It is also a great way to plan ahead breakfasts like making breakfast muffins for the week and popping them in the freezer so you only need to warm them up in the morning. This gives you more time in the morning to get yourself and the kids ready without stressing and rushing around.

Be Clear With Your Employer And Maintain Work/Life Boundaries

In some careers, employers will want their staff to go above and beyond in the sense of doing more work, staying late and doing things not in their job contract. While this is good in some aspects, things like staying late won’t work if you have the school run to do. So be clear on what you can do and what you can’t from the start.

Craft beer has taken the world by storm, and the Philippines is no exception. In recent years, there has been a remarkable rise in craft beer culture in the country. This article will explore the craft beer phenomenon, its history in the Philippines, the art and science behind brewing craft beer, the current state of the craft beer industry, and its future prospects in the country.

What is Craft Beer?

Craft beer is not just any beer; it is a labor of love. Unlike mass-produced beer, craft beer is brewed by independent breweries that prioritize quality over quantity. These breweries use traditional brewing methods and high-quality ingredients to create unique and flavorful brews that appeal to discerning palates.

Craft brewers are not afraid to push the boundaries of what beer can be. They experiment with different ingredients, techniques, and styles to create innovative and artisanal beers that stand out from the crowd. Each craft beer is a testament to the brewer’s dedication and creativity.

What is the Craft Beer Phenomenon?

The craft beer phenomenon has taken the world by storm, captivating beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. With its rich history, diverse flavors, and passionate community, craft beer has become more than just a trendy beverage; it is a product of passion, innovation, and creativity.

To explore the exciting world of craft beers in the Philippines, check out thirst.com.ph, your go-to source for discovering the latest trends and breweries shaping the local craft beer landscape.

Why is Craft Beer Gaining Popularity?

Local Support, Global Love

One of the reasons craft beer is gaining popularity is the growing consumer interest in supporting local businesses and products. Craft breweries are often deeply rooted in their communities, sourcing ingredients locally and contributing to the local economy. By choosing craft beer, consumers can indulge in their love for beer while also supporting their local community.

Community Bonds

Craft breweries often cultivate a strong sense of community. They provide welcoming and convivial spaces where beer lovers can come together to share their passion and knowledge. Craft beer enthusiasts can engage in lively conversations, attend beer tastings and events, and even participate in brewery tours to learn more about the brewing process.

Craft Beer’s Unique Appeal

Another factor contributing to the rise of craft beer is the desire for unique and diverse flavors. Craft brewers are constantly experimenting with different ingredients, such as fruits, spices, and even coffee, to create exciting and unexpected flavor profiles. This constant innovation keeps craft beer enthusiasts intrigued and always eager to try the latest brew.

Quality Over Quantity

Craft beer offers an alternative to the mass-produced beers that dominate the market. Craft brewers prioritize quality and flavor over quantity, resulting in beers that are often more complex and interesting. Craft beer drinkers can savor the nuances and intricacies of each brew, enjoying a sensory experience that goes beyond mere refreshment.

Celebrating Artistry and Craftsmanship

The craft beer phenomenon is driven by a combination of factors, including the passion and creativity of craft brewers, the desire to support local businesses, the sense of community fostered by craft breweries, and the quest for unique and flavorful beer. As craft beer continues to captivate beer lovers around the world, it is clear that it is more than just a passing trend; it is a movement that celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of brewing.

What is the History of Craft Beer in the Philippines?

Early Beginnings of Beer Brewing in the Philippines

The history of beer brewing in the Philippines dates back to the Spanish colonial era. Filipinos learned the art of brewing from the Spaniards, who introduced beer to the archipelago. However, for many years, the beer scene in the Philippines was dominated by large commercial breweries.

The Emergence of Craft Beer Culture

It was not until the early 2000s that the craft beer movement started to gain traction in the Philippines. Inspired by the global craft beer revolution, passionate entrepreneurs began brewing their own beers, experimenting with local ingredients, and pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing techniques. This marked the birth of the craft beer culture in the country.

What is the Art and Science of Brewing Craft Beer?

The Brewing Process Explained

Brewing craft beer is a meticulous process that involves several stages, including malting, mashing, boiling, fermenting, and conditioning. Each step requires careful attention and precise control of temperature, time, and ingredients to achieve the desired flavors and aromas. Craft brewers often focus on small-batch production, allowing them to be more hands-on and maintain strict quality standards.

The Role of Ingredients in Flavor and Quality

One of the key aspects of craft beer is the use of quality ingredients. Craft brewers often source local, organic, and specialty grains, hops, and yeast to create distinct and flavorful brews. These carefully selected ingredients contribute to the complexity and character of the final product, ensuring a memorable drinking experience.

What is the Current State of Craft Beer Industry in the Philippines?

The craft beer scene in the Philippines has come a long way in a short time. Today, there are numerous breweries across the country dedicated to crafting exceptional beers. Some notable examples include Juan Brew, The Brewery at the Palace, The Perfect Pint, and Baguio Craft Brewery. Each brewery offers a unique selection of brews, showcasing the immense creativity and talent of the local craft beer community.

The rise of craft beer culture in the Philippines reflects a growing appreciation for quality, innovation, and local entrepreneurship. Craft beer enthusiasts are not just seeking a refreshing beverage; they are seeking an experience – one that celebrates creativity, community, and the flavors of the Philippines. With its rich history, dedication to craftsmanship, and promising future, the craft beer movement in the Philippines is here to stay.

The transformation from a traditional ‘Kahera’ to a modern career woman is a narrative that resonates deeply with Filipina mothers. This evolution reflects the changing landscape of opportunities for women in the Philippines, where the demands of motherhood are increasingly being balanced with professional ambitions. The linchpin in this balancing act is the advent of flexible childcare, a revolutionary support system that has empowered these women to pursue their careers without compromising on their children’s well-being.

This blog post will delve into the transformative stories of Filipina mothers, whose relentless spirit and determination are shaping a new paradigm. We will explore how flexible childcare has become an indispensable ally in the pursuit of their professional dreams, ensuring that while they climb the career ladder, their children’s growth and development continue to be nurtured.

What is the Traditional Role of Kahera?

The cultural significance of the kahera role in the Philippines cannot be overstated. For many Filipina mothers, becoming a kahera was a natural progression in their journey towards financial independence. Marketplaces served as a meeting point for communities, facilitating social interactions and networking opportunities. The kahera enjoyed a sense of pride in their work, providing for their families while being seen as a pillar of strength.

The bustling marketplaces of the Philippines were not just places for buying and selling goods. They were vibrant hubs of activity, filled with the sounds of bargaining, the aroma of freshly cooked food, and the colorful displays of various products. The kahera, with their friendly and welcoming demeanor, played a crucial role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for both locals and tourists.

What is the Cultural Significance of Kahera in the Philippines?

Being a kahera was not just about selling goods. It was an embodiment of Filipino resilience and entrepreneurship. The role symbolized the unwavering spirit of Filipina mothers, successfully juggling their responsibilities and contributing to the economic growth of their communities.

As kaheras interacted with customers from different walks of life, they became cultural ambassadors, showcasing the diversity and richness of Filipino traditions. They shared stories and anecdotes, creating connections and fostering a sense of unity among people from various backgrounds.

What are the Challenges and Expectations of Being a Kahera?

However, being a kahera came with its own set of challenges. The work was physically demanding, often requiring long hours in challenging weather conditions. The kaheras stood under the scorching sun or braved the heavy rains, ensuring that their stalls remained open and ready to serve customers.

The Kaheras’ Struggle for Growth

Despite the physical hardships, kaheras faced societal expectations that often limited their opportunities for personal and professional growth outside the market setting. Many women were expected to prioritize their roles as wives and mothers, leaving little room for pursuing education or exploring other career paths.

Community and Leadership Among Kaheras

Nevertheless, kaheras found ways to overcome these challenges. They formed support networks within their communities, sharing advice and resources to help each other thrive. Some kaheras took on additional roles, such as organizing community events or participating in local initiatives, showcasing their leadership skills and expanding their influence beyond the marketplace.

The Kahera’s Cultural and Community Impact

In conclusion, the role of the kahera in the Philippines goes beyond simply selling goods. It represents the resilience, entrepreneurship, and cultural richness of Filipina mothers. Despite the challenges they face, kaheras continue to be an integral part of the community, providing not only economic support but also a sense of warmth and unity.

What is the Evolution of Filipina Mothers in the Workforce?

Over the years, Filipina mothers’ aspirations have extended beyond traditional homemaking roles. Driven by a desire for personal fulfillment and financial stability, many have transitioned into pursuing careers outside the home.

The Shift from Homemaking to Career Pursuits

Modern Filipina mothers are breaking away from the stereotype that confined them to the household. Through embracing educational and professional opportunities, they are seeking fulfillment in their careers, while simultaneously fulfilling their roles as mothers.

Balancing Motherhood and Professional Life

With increased workforce participation, Filipina mothers face the challenge of juggling their responsibilities as caregivers and professionals. Flexible childcare has emerged as a solution, allowing them to embark on their career journeys without compromising their children’s well-being.

What is the Impact of Flexible Childcare on Filipina Mothers?

Flexible childcare has revolutionized the lives of Filipina mothers, providing them with the support they need to pursue their aspirations. It offers a range of benefits that go beyond convenience.

The Concept of Flexible Childcare

Flexible childcare refers to childcare options that accommodate the needs and schedules of working mothers. This can include part-time daycare services, shared caregiving arrangements, or childcare centers with extended hours.

The Benefits of Flexible Childcare for Working Mothers

By having access to flexible childcare, Filipina mothers can confidently take on professional opportunities and contribute to the workforce. They no longer need to choose between their career ambitions and their children’s well-being. Moreover, flexible childcare empowers them to establish a healthy work-life balance, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. It provides the necessary support system that allows them to excel professionally while fulfilling their motherly duties.

When the search for childcare services that embody both reliability and professionalism becomes a top priority for discerning parents, Inna Circle stands as a clear choice. Their platform is a bastion of quality, offering a network of skilled childminders who are not only vetted for their expertise and reliability but are also deeply committed to fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment for every child in their care.

Empowerment through Flexible Childcare

Beyond the practical advantages, flexible childcare has a profound impact on the emotional and psychological empowerment of Filipina mothers.

How Flexible Childcare Boosts Confidence and Independence

Having reliable childcare enables Filipina mothers to take ownership of their lives, fostering a sense of confidence and independence. This newfound freedom encourages them to pursue career paths that align with their passions and ambitions, ultimately enriching their lives and the lives of their families.

The Role of Flexible Childcare in Economic Empowerment

It is crucial to recognize that the economic empowerment of Filipina mothers positively impacts society as a whole. Through flexible childcare, they can contribute to the economy through their careers while simultaneously raising the next generation of empowered individuals.

The journey from kahera to career woman is made possible by the empowerment that flexible childcare offers Filipina mothers. The shifts in societal norms have paved the way for them to pursue their aspirations outside traditional roles. With flexible childcare as their ally, they can confidently enter the professional world while continuing to provide their children with the love and care they deserve. This empowerment not only benefits individual mothers but has the potential to transform the landscape of Filipino society at large, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

We all have those days when the mere thought of getting out of bed, let alone going to work or doing anything else, just seems impossible. On those days, the best thing to do is often to have a ‘duvet day’ where you literally stay in bed and relax as much as possible – it’s a form of self-care, and although it might initially seem like a waste of time (or even selfish!), the truth is it can help hugely and ensure you feel much better by the time you’re done.

Of course, you can just doze all day, and for some people, that’s enough – or rather, it’s the best thing they can do. However, for others, there are different ways to make the most of a duvet day, and if you’re wondering what they might be, keep reading to find out.

Make Your Home Cozy

One of the most important things to do if you’re going to have a duvet day is to make sure your home and wherever you’re spending your day (it could be your bedroom, but it could equally be a sofa in the living room, or a book nook somewhere else in your home, for example) is cozy and welcoming. When it feels great, you’ll be a lot more relaxed and not worry about doing the housework or making changes to make things more comfortable.

Some of the things you can do include dimming the lights (and perhaps having candles too), playing soothing music, and making sure your bedclothes are fresh and clean. Make yourself a little cocoon of comfort that smells and feels great, and you’ll have the most amazing duvet day.

Ignore Social Media

Social media can be a useful thing, especially if you run a business or you want to stay up to date with your family and friends. However, studies have shown that social media can also have a detrimental effect on your mental health – you’ll either see a lot of negativity, which is upsetting, or you’ll compare yourself to others and their ‘perfect’ lives and feel bad. Or both. That’s why, when you’re having a duvet day, the best thing to do is ignore social media altogether.

This can be a hard thing to do because, even if we don’t like to admit it, many of us are addicted to checking our profiles and feeds. Therefore, find something to keep your attention for a while so you don’t even think about looking. Listening to music, reading a book, or watching a great movie or TV series would all be good ways to do it. Watch Vindication here, and you’ll soon see why things like this can keep you occupied and away from social media.

Treat Yourself

A duvet day really is the ideal time to treat yourself to a little (or a lot) of pampering, and that could include whatever you want, from eating your favorite comfort foods to having a long, luxurious soak in the tub.

Sometimes you might not know when a duvet day is coming (although you can also plan them in advance and make the most of them that way), which is why it’s wise to have your favorite things stored away in your home, just in case you need them.

It’s easy to make fun of the “pregnancy cravings” which often lead to bizarre (or to put it more nicely ‘interesting’) flavor combinations in the food we choose to eat. Of course, there’s a fair amount of leeway to be given here – try to grow a brand new human being yourself, however natural it is, and you’ll see that yes, it does have an effect.

But while we poke light and harmless fun at these changes, if temporary behaviors can bring joy to many, it’s worth considering what’s actually happening here. After all, alternative cravings or preferences aren’t exactly a health issue like itchy skin during pregnancy, provided you’re getting a balanced diet with enough nutrients and steering well clear of alcohol and other vices.

By learning of how our diet habits can change during pregnancy, you can develop better habits or help repeat the good ones that help you sustain yourself over the course of this quite unique period of your life. While exploring these changes, we also intend to give some worthwhile dietary advice for expectant mothers, and we hope such insights help:

Increased Nutrient Requirements

Pregnancy places greater demands on the body, as it needs to provide nourishment and support for both the mother and the growing baby, and for a prolonged period of three-quarters of a year. As a result, there is an increased need for various nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients such as protein and carbohydrates. A balanced diet becomes paramount to meet these elevated nutrient requirements, but you should also be very careful regarding supplementation.

Some supplements simply aren’t acceptable for pregnant mothers, while some may offer similar vitamin counts, so for instance taking a multivitamin and an additional essential vitamin on top of that could take you above the daily recommended allowance you should be aiming for. On top of that, certain nutrients are key for pregnancy, such as folic acid, iron, calcium and omega-3. It’s important to note that some companies put out great prenatal supplements to make sure you have everything to hand at once. In the long run, that can make a great deal of positive difference.

These can help your unborn child through helping to combat conditions like anemia and support bone development. In the long run, this will help you gain the best chance of offering optimal health to your child, while also helping you deal with the rigors of pregnancy more easily. So, to put it simply, diet habits not only change during this time, but those habits must be precisely and consciously considered.

Hydration Importance

We all know we need to drink a good amount of water each day, but in pregnancy, that becomes a non-negotiable consideration. It’s also important to be careful when drinking caffeine through teas as a max limit of 200mg is recommended to expecting mothers, as any more has been linked to issues like low birth weight.

Moreover, staying well-hydrated is critical during pregnancy. Water is essential for maintaining amniotic fluid, regulating body temperature, and aiding digestion – no doubt you can agree all of these are essential priorities. It also helps prevent urinary tract infections, which can be more common during pregnancy. Pregnant women should aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, then, equalling roughly 64 to 96 ounces, or roughly 8 to 12 standard-size cups worth.

Managing Nausea and Cravings

Most pregnant women experience these two difficulties as their body is taxed during pregnancy. While they might not completely dissipate, they can be managed. Managing morning sickness through dietary adjustments, such as consuming bland, easy-to-digest foods, can help alleviate discomfort. Likewise, understanding and satisfying cravings within reason is a normal part of the pregnancy journey, so don’t feel ashamed if you’re suddenly extremely attracted to the idea of eating pickled foods between two layers of wholemeal toast and hummus – you may balk at the idea later, but as of now, it may be the recipe you most dream about.

A quick Google to see if a certain combination is safe to eat can always be helpful, but make sure you’re still satisfying your cravings in a considered manner, and if your partner pokes fun at you for it, remember that you’re carrying their child to begin with, and you deserve a little slack.

Weight Gain Considerations

Weight gain is absolutely an expected and necessary part of pregnancy for obvious reasons, and in some cases, you may grow extra fat as part of that, outside of carrying an unborn child. Healthy weight gain is essential, and it’s not solely about quantity but the quality of the calories consumed.

It’s also important to remember that no two women will come through pregnancy the exact same way. If you’re a little larger after your pregnancy than you had expected, that’s absolutely fine, adn you can always focus on weight loss later down the line. In other words, unless this presents itself as a problem and you’re given recommendations by your doctor to change your habits, don’t worry about your figure during this time. You have much more important priorities to worry about.

Safe Food Handling

Pregnant women are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses, which can be harmful to the baby. Safe food handling practices, including thorough cooking and avoiding certain high-risk foods, are critical to prevent possible sicknesses and other dangers.

In other words, you may be ultra careful about eating in new locations, especially when on vacation. You can also invest in certain helpers in the kitchen like temperature thermometers that pierce the meat and can tell you the exact internal temperature, for example in chicken the same temperature is 165 Fahrenheit to kill any harmful bacteria that could lead to potential sickness.

With this advice, we hope you can more easily understand how diet habits change during pregnancy, and also never feel like an outlier if you pick up some quirky habits of your own along the way. It’s perfectly natural, and we’re sure you’ll keep up with your great diet as you wait for the arrival of your little one. Good luck!