The Working Mom - Blog , Experiences and Advice

Putting Patients First: A Call to Prioritize Care Over Corporate Greed

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:30:00 -0500

In today’s healthcare landscape, the tension between patient care and corporate profit has never been more palpable. As providers, we are often caught in the crossfire, striving to deliver the best possible care while navigating the pressures of a profit-driven system. But what if we could shift the focus back to where it belongs—on the patients?

The Current Landscape

Healthcare has increasingly become a business, with corporate interests often overshadowing patient needs. This shift has led to overworked staff, understaffed facilities, and patients who feel more like numbers than individuals. The Minnesota Nurses Association’s “Healing Greed Agenda” is a prime example of efforts to combat this trend, advocating for legislation that holds hospital executives accountable and prioritizes patient care.

Steps to Prioritize Patients

Advocate for Policy Changes: Support legislation that aims to curb corporate greed in healthcare. For instance, the proposed Corporate Crimes Against Health Care Act seeks to hold private equity executives accountable for actions that harm healthcare organizations. By backing such initiatives, we can push for a system that values patient care over profits. Write to your local and state representatives.

Empower Healthcare Workers: Frontline workers are the backbone of patient care. Ensuring they have a voice in decision-making processes and protecting them from retaliation when they advocate for patients is crucial. As working moms in healthcare, we need to use those diplomatic voices we have developed over the years, like when we are bargaining with our kids over 30 more minutes of play time.

Transparency in Executive Compensation: Shining a light on the often exorbitant salaries and bonuses of healthcare executives can help hold them accountable. Transparency can drive change by highlighting the disparity between executive pay and the resources allocated for patient care.

Community Engagement: Hospitals and healthcare providers should actively engage with the communities they serve. This includes investing in community health initiatives and ensuring that tax-exempt hospitals give back to their communities rather than funneling profits to executives.

Focus on Quality Care: At the heart of healthcare should be a commitment to quality care. This means adequate staffing, continuous training, and a culture that prioritizes patient outcomes over financial metrics.

As providers, we have a moral and ethical obligation to place our patients above corporate greed. By advocating for policy changes, empowering healthcare workers, demanding transparency, engaging with our communities, and focusing on quality care, we can begin to shift the balance back in favor of those who matter most—our patients. Together, we can create a healthcare system that truly puts patients first.

Xoxo-Lisa

A Letter to My Friends who are Sending their Kids off to College

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 13:26:39 -0500

It's OK to not be OK.

I had recently reached out to a bestie from high school and she is really struggling. After watching her struggle with infertility for so many years, followed by the joy of having not one, but two beautiful babies on the same day, we all knew as the years flew by, how hard it would be to have to let go of both at the same time. Her words hit my heart in a way only a mother can understand: "My soul just hurts. I've never felt this way before. I'm so happy for them, but I already feel the loneliness. How am I going to drop my baby boy off with complete strangers 11 hours away and just walk away, and then have to do it all again next weekend with my baby girl?" I had a big cry, because I could feel her pain. I only have one, and in two short years, I will be an empty nester all at once too. After seeing all the posts of everyone sending their kiddoes off to college, I wanted to just write a letter to all of my friends that are going through this right now. It just can't be easy. I'm dreading it, but I know deep down it's a reflection of how much I love her and it will be a celebration of all the milestones she and I have achieved together over the years. And so.....

To my dear friends,

As you prepare or have already sent your child off to college, I wanted to take a moment to reach out and share in this significant milestone with you. I can only imagine the mix of emotions you’re experiencing right now—pride, excitement, sadness, and perhaps a bit of anxiety. It’s a big step, not just for your child, but for you as well.

I'm here! Whether you need someone to talk to, a shoulder to cry on, or just a friend to share a cup of coffee with, I’m just a call away. This journey is filled with so many new experiences and opportunities, and it’s okay to feel a bit overwhelmed. Remember, each of the mixed emotions are a reflection of the deep love you have for your child.

In two short years, I’ll be in your shoes, sending my own daughter off to college. I know I’ll be looking to you for support and guidance, just as you might need mine now. Let’s lean on each other and navigate this new chapter together.

Remember, this is also a time to celebrate all the hard work and love you’ve poured into raising such an incredible young adult. Your child is embarking on an exciting adventure, and they carry with them all the values and lessons you’ve instilled.

Let’s share our experiences and support each other through the highs and lows. We’re in this together, and I believe that with each other’s support, we’ll find joy and strength in this new phase of life.

Here are some tips that my seasoned "college parent friends" have offered so far:

Explain that Ramen noodles are both a meal and an investment strategy. They’ll appreciate the ROI when their student loans kick in... and add some veggies or an egg to give it more protein and fiber.
Suggest they resolve conflicts with their roommate using rock-paper-scissors. Winner gets the last slice of pizza, loser gets the trash duty.
Assure them that you’ll be available 24/7 for life’s important questions, like “How do I adult?” and “Is it normal to miss my pet goldfish?”
Teach them the ancient art of separating whites from colors. Bonus points if they can decipher the cryptic hieroglyphs on clothing labels.
Encourage strategic napping. The library? Perfect for a quick snooze between chapters. The lecture hall? Not so much.
Advise them to keep a secret stash of snacks for late-night study sessions. Nothing says “I’m acing this exam” like a bag of gummy bears. Popcorn, chocolate, and coffee are also your new best friends.
Teach them to nod sagely during lectures, even if they have no idea what’s going on. Bonus points for scribbling cryptic notes.
When you hit a mental roadblock, step outside. Fresh air and a change of scenery can work wonders for your brain cells.
Group projects are a rite of passage. Embrace the chaos, and remember, there’s always that one person who does all the work (try not to be that person).

Sending you all my love and hugs,

Xoxo, Lisa

I'm also sending my love to Alexis, Joe, Jocelyn, and Connor Knorr.... I know their parents dropped them off with heavy hearts, and they are already enjoying their new campus lives at Clemson (Connor) and NYU (Jocelyn). Thanksgiving break is right around the corner. I know this because pumpkin spice is EVERYWHERE right now and football has started. haha. "Aunt" Lisa will just have to plan some trips with "Mom" to visit NYC for brunch and theater and Clemson SC to re-live our college tail-gating days. And we promise NOT to embarrass you (we will at least give it our best efforts ;)

Working Moms in Healthcare~Unique Challanges we Face & How to Tackle Them

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 11:15:00 -0500

As working moms in healthcare, we face unique challenges compared to other working moms.

Here are some of the key differences:

Demanding and Unpredictable Hours: Healthcare professionals often work long, irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. This unpredictability can make it difficult to balance work and family life.

High Stress and Emotional Toll: The nature of healthcare work, which involves dealing with life-and-death situations, can be emotionally draining. This stress can spill over into our personal lives, affecting mental health and well-being.

Exposure to Health Risks: Working in healthcare, especially during pandemics, exposes moms to higher health risks, which can be a significant concern for our families.

Limited Flexibility: Many healthcare roles require physical presence, limiting the ability to work from home or have flexible hours. This lack of flexibility can make it harder to manage childcare and other family responsibilities.

Career Advancement Barriers: Due to the often demanding nature of our jobs, healthcare moms may find it challenging to pursue further education or career advancement opportunities. We often have to prioritize immediate job responsibilities over long-term career goals.

Financial Insecurity: The financial strain can be more pronounced for healthcare moms, especially if we need to reduce our working hours or take unpaid leave to manage caregiving responsibilities.

These factors combined make the experience of working moms in healthcare particularly challenging compared to other sectors.

How can we address these challenges to better support working moms in healthcare?

Here are some strategies that can help working moms in healthcare cope with the unique challenges:

Time Management: Prioritize tasks and create a schedule that balances work and family responsibilities. Use tools like planners or apps to stay organized.

Seek Support: Build a support network of family, friends, and colleagues. Don’t hesitate to ask for help with childcare or household chores.

Self-Care: Make time for self-care activities, such as exercise, hobbies, or relaxation techniques. This can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Flexible Work Arrangements: If possible, negotiate flexible work hours or part-time schedules with your employer. Some healthcare facilities may offer options like job sharing or telehealth roles.

Professional Help: Consider seeking professional counseling or therapy to manage stress and emotional challenges. Many healthcare organizations offer employee assistance programs (EAPs) that provide mental health support.

Continuing Education: Look for online courses or part-time programs that allow you to advance your career without compromising your current responsibilities.

Financial Planning: Create a budget and financial plan to manage expenses and save for the future. Consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized advice.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation to stay grounded and manage stress. Even a few minutes a day can make a significant difference.

Healthy Boundaries: Set boundaries between work and home life. Try to leave work-related stress at the workplace and focus on family time when at home.

Join Support Groups: Connect with other working moms in healthcare through support groups or online communities. Sharing experiences and advice can be incredibly helpful.

Implementing these strategies can help ease some of the stress that goes along with our demanding careers. Don't forget that you are all badass supermoms and we need to lean on each other for support! And when all else fails... have a Happy Hour with your bestie!

And stay tuned.... we have new products and announcements on the horizon!

Xoxo -Lisa

Stress During Hard Economic Times

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 19:54:14 -0500

Stress during tough economic times is a common experience, and it’s essential to manage it effectively. Here are some practical tips to help you cope:

Pause but Don’t Panic:

Negative news about the economy can be overwhelming. Stay informed but avoid getting caught up in doom-and-gloom hype. High anxiety can lead to poor decision-making.

Identify Your Financial Stressors and Make a Plan:

Take stock of your specific financial situation and what causes you stress. Write down ways to reduce expenses or manage finances more efficiently. Commit to a plan and review it regularly.

Recognize Your Coping Mechanisms:

Some people turn to unhealthy activities like smoking, drinking, gambling, or emotional eating during tough economic times. Be aware of these behaviors and seek help if needed. Exercise and self-care are key!!

Turn Challenges into Opportunities:

Use economic challenges as motivation for positive change. Consider learning new skills, spending quality time with family, or finding inexpensive ways to exercise.

Ask for Professional Support:

If you’re struggling with bills or debt, reach out to your bank, utilities, or credit card company. Seeking help from a psychologist can also be helpful. There are also many apps that are useful such as "Calm, Headspace, and Happify".

When all else fails, use humor! Call on your funny friends, have a glass of wine (I've already ignored rule #2 above.... but who cares, I'm not perfect), plan an outing, and reminisce about good times. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are strategies to navigate stress.

Happy Friday!

-Xoxo Lisa

A Letter to our Kids

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0500

To Our Sons and Daughters (A letter from your busy working mom)

As a working mom, I want to share some heartfelt advice with you. Life can be busy and challenging but remember that you’re never alone. Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

Balance: Finding balance between work, family, and personal time is essential. Prioritize what truly matters to you, and don’t be afraid to say no when needed.

Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s necessary. Whether it’s a walk in the park, hanging with your besties, or just chilling on the couch, make time for self-care.

Dream Big: Pursue your passions fearlessly. As a working mom, I’ve learned that dreams don’t have an expiration date. Chase them relentlessly!

Communication: Talk openly with your family. Share your feelings, fears, and joys. We’re a team, and we’ll face life’s challenges together.

Financial Literacy: Understand money—how to save, invest, and budget. It’s empowering and crucial for your future.

Kindness: Be kind to yourself and others. Life can be tough, but kindness makes it brighter.

Education: Keep learning. Knowledge is a lifelong gift. Explore new subjects, read, and stay curious.

Love: Love fiercely. Love your family, friends, and yourself. It’s the most beautiful thing we can give and receive.

Remember, my dear, you’re strong, capable, and loved! Embrace life’s journey and know that I’m always here for you!

With all my love,

Mom. -Xoxo

Maternity Leave! Know Your Rights!

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 17:14:33 -0500

Maternity leave rights in the United States vary based on federal and state laws. Here’s what you need to know:

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA):

-The FMLA provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for specific family and medical reasons, including childbirth and caring for a newborn.

-Legal parents (both mothers and fathers) are protected under this law. To qualify, you must work for a covered employer (usually with 50 or more employees) and have been employed for at least 12 months.

-During FMLA leave, your job is protected, and you cannot be fired or replaced. However, this leave is unpaid, so planning and budgeting are essential.

Paid Maternity Leave:

Unlike many other countries, the U.S. does not have federally mandated paid maternity leave. Only about 12% of women in the private sector have access to any form of paid maternity leave. Some states and individual employers voluntarily provide paid leave, but it’s not a national requirement.

Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA):

-Passed in 1978, the PDA prohibits job discrimination based on pregnancy.

-Key provisions include:

-Employers cannot fire you because you’re pregnant.

-You cannot be forced to take mandatory maternity leave.

-You must receive the same health, disability, and sick-leave benefits as other employees with medical conditions.

-Reasonable accommodations (such as modified tasks or leave without pay) must be provided if needed.

Remember to research your specific state laws and company policies regarding maternity leave. Gathering paperwork and consulting your human resources department will help you navigate the process effectively.

-Xoxo Lisa

Stay Tuned for More Tips, Tricks, and Advice by The Working Mom®

Navigating Health Care Insurance

Mon, 20 May 2024 12:29:44 -0500

Navigating insurance for children can be overwhelming, but here are some essential tips for parents (these tips can also be helpful for assisting our aging parents and also ourselves) ....

Understand Coverage Options: Familiarize yourself with available insurance options. These may include employer-sponsored plans, Medicaid, CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), or individual policies.

Enroll Early: Don’t delay enrollment. Many plans have open enrollment periods, so be aware of deadlines. If you miss the window, you might have to wait until the next enrollment period. (Also, if you are late to enroll in Medicare when approaching age 65, this can come with penalties such as increased rates and decreased benefits, so make sure you are aware of your timelines when you get close).

Check Eligibility: Determine if your child qualifies for Medicaid or CHIP based on income and family size. These programs provide low-cost or free coverage for eligible children.

Pediatric Benefits: Ensure the plan covers essential pediatric services, including preventive care, vaccinations, and well-child visits. Look for coverage of dental and vision care too.

Network Considerations: Understand the network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals. Choose a plan that includes providers you trust and facilities convenient for your family.

Costs and Premiums: Compare premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs. Consider your family’s budget and healthcare needs.

Appeal Denials: If a claim is denied, appeal it promptly!!! Insurance companies sometimes make mistakes, and persistence can lead to coverage.

Know Your Benefits: Make sure you read the EOC (Evidence of Coverage) document. Every health insurance policy has one. It describes in detail the health care benefits covered by the health plan including how much you pay, what the plan covers, and how it works. It's generally written in a non-complex way. Familiarize yourself with what's covered and what's not covered. Both are typically listed.

Remember, seeking advice from a qualified insurance agent or counselor can provide personalized guidance.

Xoxo ~Lisa

Helping your Teen Heal from a Broken Heart

Sun, 05 May 2024 09:00:00 -0500

The emotion that can break your heart is sometimes the very one that heals it... ~ Nicholas Sparks

Dealing with a broken heart can be tough for teenagers, and as a parent, it’s natural to want to support them during this challenging time.

Here are some helpful strategies to assist your teenager in coping with heartbreak:

Give Them Space and Time:
- Understand that there isn’t a specific timeline for recovering from heartbreak. Some teens bounce back quickly, while others take longer. Allow them the space and time they need to bounce back.
Ask If They Want Advice or to Vent:
- Teens may resist sharing their feelings if they think you’ll immediately give advice. Instead, let them vent. If you have advice, ask them first if they want it.
Suggest They Share Their Feelings with Someone:
- Encourage your teenager to talk to someone, even if they don’t want to open up to you. Suggest friends, family members, or another supportive adult. It’s important for them to express their emotions and know that feeling sad, lonely, or anxious is completely normal during times of separation or rejection.
Discuss Social Media:
- Social media can add stress during heartbreak. Ask your teen about their experiences online. If it’s causing additional distress, consider suggesting a break or temporarily pausing certain accounts.
Encourage Normal Routines:
- Help your teen get back to their regular routines, including school, extracurricular activities, and family mealtimes. Routines provide comfort and a sense that life continues despite the heartache.
Spend Quality Time Together:

Loneliness often accompanies a breakup. Engage in activities together, whether it’s going out or having fun at home. Show kindness and support without being overly parental or giving unsolicited advice. I made chocolate chip cookies at 1:00 AM to heal some of her pain. Moms always know what to do without necessarily being intrusive.

Remember that heartbreak is a normal part of growing up, and it provides valuable lessons for your teenager’s emotional development. Be there for them, listen actively, and let them know they’re loved and supported. Encourage them to surround themselves with family and friends to help mend their heart. You’ve got this! 💙

~Xoxo Lisa

Ten Ways to Teach your Kids Humility

Thu, 02 May 2024 14:40:04 -0500

Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. ~ C.S. Lewis

Teaching humility to children is essential for their character development, otherwise we all know those people who never learned to be grateful and never feel that they have enough. It's one thing to be determined to succeed at something, but it's another thing to never feel satisfied, even with small wins. It's also important to be able to admit when you're wrong.

Here are 10 ways you can instill this valuable trait in your kids:

Modeling: Never underestimate the power of teaching through example. Consistently model humility as a lifestyle, rather than an occasional display. Kids know when you are faking.
Build Them Up: Humility often arises from a position of belief, strength, and self-assurance. Encourage and help your child be the best they can be, regardless of the task.
Real Value Source: Make sure your children understand that their real value doesn’t come solely from achievements, looks, or abilities. They are inherently valuable simply because they are your child.
Avoid Humiliation: Humility cannot be imposed through humiliation. Never humiliate your kids. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.
Learn from Role Models: Expose your child to stories of great teachers and role models.
Teach Them to Serve: Encourage your child to serve others.
Coach Their Responses: Teach your child how to respond graciously. Role-play scenarios where they express gratitude, acknowledge others’ efforts, and avoid boastfulness.
Apologize Sincerely: The well-timed and sincere apology is a key component of humility. Teach your child to apologize when they’re wrong, overreach, or unintentionally cause harm.
Practice Gratitude: Teach them to give thanks. Gratitude fosters humility by recognizing the contributions of others and acknowledging blessings.
Desire Growth: Help your child see life through a lens of invitations rather than inconveniences. Cultivate a mindset that embraces learning, growth, and the endless possibilities to love others.

Remember, these lessons are lifelong, and consistency matters. By nurturing humility, you equip your children with a powerful tool for healthy relationships, empathy, and personal growth.

Xoxo ~Lisa

5 Tips to Avoid Working Mom Guilt!

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:30:00 -0500

Stop the Banter in Your Own Head!

As a working mom, guilt can weigh heavily on your shoulders as you strive to balance career responsibilities with family duties. Here are some strategies to help you cope with that working mom’s guilt:

Forgive Yourself: Recognize that you’re making choices based on your circumstances. Forgive yourself for any perceived shortcomings or trade-offs. Remember, you’re doing your best.
Revisit Your Values: Reflect on your core values and priorities. Make them your compass when making decisions. Sometimes, saying “no” to certain commitments is necessary to protect what matters most.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to family, friends, or colleagues. You don’t have to do it all alone. Delegate tasks and share responsibilities.
Good Enough Parenting: Strive for excellence, but also recognize that perfection isn’t attainable. Be a “good enough” parent. Your love and presence matter more than being flawless.
Unfollow Negativity: On social media, unfollow accounts that trigger feelings of inadequacy or guilt. Surround yourself with positive influences and supportive communities.

Remember, you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many working moms experience similar struggles. Be kind to yourself, advocate for flexibility, and cherish quality time with your loved ones.

-Lisa Xoxo