Before I became a mum, I was the kind of person who would work as many hours as needed to get things done. I thought the more hours I put in, the more productive and valuable I was. But, as many of us with chronic illness know, that approach is a fast track to burnout. Eventually, I reached a breaking point; my health suffered, my energy levels plummeted and I knew something had to change.

Then, motherhood entered the picture and suddenly, I couldn’t work around the clock anymore. Motherhood introduced a new rhythm into my life, one that was both more demanding and unexpectedly grounding. Here’s how it taught me to better manage my chronic illness at work and find a healthier balance in my life.

Embracing a New Approach to Work

Before my child was born, I could push through exhaustion and pain if needed, working late nights and weekends. But once I became a mum, my priorities shifted. Now, there are school drop-offs, pick-ups and unexpected days at home when my child is sick or needs extra attention. Suddenly, I couldn’t work every hour of every day and I needed to make peace with that reality.

Rather than being a limitation, motherhood has become a powerful teacher. It has shown me the value of boundaries, of setting limits on work and focusing on what truly matters. Now, I am learning to be fully present when I’m at work, maximising productivity during my working hours. And when I’m off the clock, I’m learning to disconnect from work entirely, giving my time and energy to my family and myself.

Focusing on Quality Over Quantity

With a child, you’re constantly reminded that time is precious. I no longer have the luxury of endless hours, so I’ve learned to focus on quality over quantity in my work. Rather than pushing myself to work late or take on every task, I prioritise the most impactful ones. This approach has surprisingly made me more productive and efficient, as I can’t afford to waste energy on things that don’t add real value.

Knowing my child relies on me has motivated me to develop better routines. I pace myself during the workday, taking breaks when I need them and focusing on the tasks that align with my strengths and health needs. It’s a shift from working harder to working smarter; one that has helped me avoid the burnout that was once all too familiar.

Learning to Let Go and Rest

One of the greatest gifts of motherhood has been learning to let go of work when the day is done. As a parent, I don’t have the option to bring work stress home with me; I have to be present, available and adaptable to my child’s needs. This shift has made me realise the importance of truly resting when I’m not working, of creating a boundary between work and home life that allows me to recharge.

My child’s needs are unpredictable and I’ve had to learn to roll with it, whether that means taking time off for a sick day, adjusting my schedule to accommodate a nursery pick-up, or simply spending a slow evening together. I’ve come to see these moments not as interruptions but as opportunities to reconnect with myself and my family, stepping away from the pressure of constant productivity.

Flexibility and Balance in Everyday Life

Motherhood has shown me the importance of flexibility in all areas of life. I’ve become more adaptable, more open to adjusting my plans and more forgiving with myself when things don’t go perfectly. Chronic illness requires the same kind of flexibility and these two aspects of my life have merged to teach me resilience, acceptance and balance.

Being able to flex to the day’s needs, whether for my health or my child’s, has given me a new sense of peace. I’ve learned to focus on what truly matters, to let go of the pressure to “do it all” and to trust that some things can wait while I prioritise my well-being and my family.

Finding Balance: A Healthier Approach to Work and Life

Today, my approach to work and life is unrecognisable compared to the days before I became a mum. Motherhood, combined with my experience managing chronic illness, has brought me a much-needed balance; a healthier rhythm that prioritises self-care, family and meaningful work over relentless productivity.

If you’re on a similar journey, remember that finding balance is an ongoing process. It’s okay to set boundaries, to say no to overworking and to prioritise your health. Sometimes, the best way to manage your chronic illness at work is to focus on life outside of work, building a foundation of rest, connection and joy.

Want More Tips on Balancing Work and Chronic Illness?

If you’re looking to create a supportive workspace that helps you manage your health and stay productive, download my FREE 30-Day Guide to a Symptom-Free Workspace here to learn practical tips and tools that can make a real difference.

And for more insights on managing work, family and chronic illness, follow me on Instagram @theemaspry. Let’s navigate this journey together!

Photos courtesy of Michelle Coxall at Curious Creatures Photography.

Disclaimer:

The content in this blog is based on my personal experience of living with chronic illness and is shared for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your GP or healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle, work routine, or health management. The tips and strategies shared here can be used alongside medical advice to support your well-being.