#HERWORKINGMAMASTORY | CARMEN GAMIELDIEN

Carmen Gamieldien, Founder and Director of Meraki Property Solutions and mom of two teenage boys, contributes to the betterment of society while simultaneously supporting her household.

What does day-to-day look like and how do you juggle it with kids?

Balancing work and parenthood is no easy feat, but I have found that establishing a routine is key to managing both. I make sure to schedule everything in my calendar, from work meetings to school runs and extracurricular activities for my children. This helps me stay organized and ensures that I can prioritize my time effectively.

In the mornings, I spend time with my kids during the school run, which is a valuable opportunity for us to connect before I start my busy day at work. Although the car ride can sometimes be silent, just having that presence around them makes a difference. Once I'm at work, I spend most of my day in meetings or online sessions, but I try to stay focused and productive to maximize my efficiency.

I am grateful to have the support of my parents and in-laws who help with the afternoon run and sporting activities such as soccer training. Without their help, it would be much more challenging to manage both work and parenthood. Being able to delegate some of the responsibilities has been a game changer for me and has allowed me to balance both aspects of my life more effectively.

I am fortunate to have an incredibly supportive husband who understands the demands of my work and the importance of my career. When I have pressing deadlines or a busy work schedule, he steps up to help with household chores and preparing delicious meals for the family.

It's not always easy for him, as he has his own responsibilities and obligations, but he understands the value of supporting one another and working as a team. His willingness to step in and take on some of the household responsibilities during times when I'm particularly busy has been a huge relief and has allowed me to focus on my work with greater peace of mind.

Having a supportive partner who is willing to help with household tasks is invaluable, and I am grateful for his contribution to our family's well-being. It truly takes a village to balance work and parenthood, and I am fortunate to have such an amazing partner by my side.

Do you work because you want to, need to, or some combination of both? Why do you work?

Working brings me a sense of purpose and fulfillment that I simply cannot find in idleness. I thrive on the challenge and productivity that comes with being self- employed and contributing to society. Not only do I find great personal satisfaction in my work, but I also recognize the importance of providing financial support for my home.

My motivation to work is rooted in my desire to make a positive impact, both on my own life and on the lives of those around me. Through hard work and dedication, I am able to contribute to the betterment of society while simultaneously supporting my household.

For me, work is not just a necessity, but a passion. I find joy and fulfillment in the tasks I perform and the responsibilities I hold, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my career while also supporting my loved ones.

What’s one resource that, if you had, would make your working mom’s life easier?

As a working mom who works from home, having a separate office space would be a game-changer. It would provide a designated area for work, making it easier to establish boundaries between work and home life.

Currently, the open-plan set up can invade on the family's private space, which can be challenging to navigate. A separate office would not only create a more professional environment for work but also allow me to better balance my work and family life.

Although working from home has its advantages, having a separate office space would make my life as a working mom much easier, enabling me to focus on work without distractions and be present with my family when I'm not working.

How would you encourage other working moms who are overwhelmed?

To other working moms who may be feeling overwhelmed, I want to say that you are not alone. Many of us face similar challenges, and it's okay to ask for help when you need it.

Remember that it's important to prioritize self-care, even in the midst of a busy schedule. Taking time for yourself, whether it's through exercise, meditation, or simply relaxing with a good book, can help you recharge and be more productive in both your work and personal life.

Don't be afraid to reach out to other working moms for support and advice. Sharing experiences and tips can help you feel less alone and provide new ideas for how to manage the challenges of balancing work and parenthood.

As your children grow and become more independent, the demands of balancing work and family may become more manageable, but it's important to continue to prioritize self-care and discern what is best for you and your family at each stage of life.

Finally, try to let go of the idea of perfection. You are doing the best you can, and that is enough. Give yourself grace and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.

Remember, you are strong, capable, and doing an amazing job. Keep going, and don't forget to take care of yourself along the way.

Any last words about your experience as a working mom (positive or negative) Anything we didn’t ask?

As a working mom running a business and managing a home and family, I've learned that it can be challenging but also equally rewarding. The idea of balance is often talked about, but it's not always a 50/50 split. There are times when you have to give 100% to work or family, and it's important to discern when and for how long, as it's not always sustainable to do so.

It's also important to recognize what draws your energy and what feeds you, and to prioritize those things in order to maintain your well-being. This may mean turning down certain invitations or opportunities that don't align with your priorities.

Ultimately, doing what is best for you and your family is crucial. For me, I have found strength and support in my faith, and without Jesus Christ and my family, I would not be able to juggle everything.

Find more from Carmen:

www.merakipropertylistings.co.za