Part Two: Navigating the Dual Working Parent Life: Insights from Natalie Nguyen

Being a working parent is a challenging and rewarding journey, but when both parents are juggling careers and raising young children, it takes a unique set of skills and a supportive dynamic to make it work. 

In this open and honest catch-up with Natalie Nguyen, a full-time working mother with a partner who works four days a week, we see how she balances her career with the demands of a growing family; a complex dance that requires strength, resilience, and unwavering support. 

Resilience & Communication Forged in Love

As a working parent, Natalie quickly realised that she possessed a resilient spirit that went beyond her expectations. The nature of raising children while pursuing a career is demanding on many levels, but she found strength in facing those challenges head-on alongside her partner, James. Their ability to weather these challenges together has strengthened their bond and appreciation for one another.

And what’s been important in keeping that bond strong? Natalie points to the importance of effective communication in overcoming the added stresses of parenthood. While she initially thought her and James’ communication was solid, the challenges they faced as parents compelled them to enhance their ability to communicate through the tough days. 

“We both acknowledge that self-care plays a vital role in maintaining strong communication and resilience. By prioritising personal well-being and "filling our own cups," we found that our communication and resilience improved significantly.”

Grandparents and Mothers Group are Vital Supports

The role of support networks in Natalie's life cannot be overstated. Her and James's parents have played distinctive roles in their parenting journey. While Natalie admits the relationships have changed and grown through her experience of parenthood, both sets of grandparents provide a mix of valuable guidance from a distance and more involved hands-on support when needed. 

However, Natalie's most surprising and transformative support system emerged from her Mothers Group. Initially hesitated to join, her vulnerability paid off as she discovered a tight-knit community of like-minded mothers who were also navigating the complexities of parenthood. What started as a support group has blossomed into lifelong friendships. The Mothers Group offers a safe space for sharing advice, venting frustrations, and providing unwavering support—no judgment, just genuine camaraderie.

Nurturing the Soul Amidst the Chaos

For Natalie, dedicating some precious time in her diary to allow her to recharge, nurture her inner self, and find balance amidst the chaos of everyday life is incredibly important. Whether it's stealing moments for meditation, indulging in yoga sessions, losing herself in a good book, or just basking in the serenity of water. By safeguarding her mental and physical health, Natalie becomes better equipped to face the challenges that come her way.

Adequate sleep and physical activity are also essential for Natalie to effectively manage her energy levels and prevent anxiety from taking hold. 

“I’ve got a lot of energy to use up, if I don’t manage it all, it can become anxiety which presents as overwhelm and stress. I need to channel that energy, for example I did a Forrest Gump one night, I just jumped on the treadmill and ran, I was so stressed and just need to channel it out.”

Another nod to the communication and strong partnership Natalie and James have, is a clear understanding of each other's needs and their individual coping mechanisms. By recognizing the signs of overwhelm and stress, they can provide mutual support and navigate challenging moments together.

The Importance of Self-Development

Natalie's journey to reclaiming time for personal passions has been a transformative process. Natalie admits that finding the confidence to ask for this time was a journey in itself. By assessing her priorities and realising the significance of her own well-being, she gradually overcame the guilt associated with taking time for herself. 

Natalie's pursuit of self-development and connection, with the guidance of some coaching friends, has played a crucial role in this process. Through their guidance and support, she learned to value her own time and acknowledge her worth. 

And once again open communication with James has also been instrumental in their ability to explore better ways of approaching challenging situations, allowing them to continuously learn and grow together.

Natalie's candidness exemplifies the transformative path of parenthood, a voyage of self-exploration that unveils previously untapped inner strength and resilience. It also demonstrates how two individuals can embark on this voyage of discovery together, lending a listening ear and mutual support to forge a supportive environment that nurtures their individual and combined journeys.

In Natalie's view, the role of a working parent extends beyond the confines of family life. It's about being a beacon of inspiration for the generations to come and these three actions are where she believes we should start:

"Share about your successes as well as your challenges and struggles – this is what makes us human."

"Life isn't just that 5% of fun and happiness displayed on social media. This enables communities to support one another rather than judge, criticise, and compare," Natalie emphasises. Her journey is an open book, revealing both the triumphs and tribulations, thereby creating a platform where others can find solidarity in their own journeys.

"Look after yourself. Your mind, body, emotional and spiritual selves. Know what it takes to put yourself first even when you think you shouldn’t – that’s when it matters the most. Not in a selfish way but in a loving way. All else will just flow."

Natalie's advice resonates deeply with the concept of self-care, which is not a luxury but a necessity. It's about nurturing oneself in every facet, recognising that taking care of your own well-being isn't just a solitary endeavour, but a gift you give to your loved ones as well. 

"Meet yourself where you are right now. Show this version of yourself compassion, kindness, and love and know that there is no where else you need to be right now."

In the whirlwind of life, it's easy to lose sight of the present moment in the pursuit of future goals. Natalie's wisdom encourages everyone to pause, acknowledge their current state, and embrace it with a sense of acceptance and self-love. 

In a world that often glorifies busyness, Natalie's journey stands as a testament to the power of resilience, communication, and self-care in the life of a working parent. It's a reminder that the journey isn't about perfection but progress, and that the dance between career and family can be navigated with grace, strength, and unwavering support.

If you missed last weeks edition, Natalie's 'parent-in-crime' James, told his story - Check it out here

James and Natalie’s insights are a testament to their commitment to each other and their shared vision of creating a harmonious life where both their professional aspirations and family life can thrive.