When people find out that Lauren and I have 11 children, they wonder how we balance all of it, especially since we are both incredibly busy. I’m no longer tied up in the 24-hour a day, seven day a week world of coaching anymore, but I do have a demanding job with NBC. In the fall in particular, I spend a lot of time traveling and working long hours. Perhaps you have struggled with figuring out how to balance work and family. The burden can be a lot to carry and it only gets more difficult as the number of kids increases and your job brings pressure.
Here are 3 ways I work toward being faithful in my roles as a dad and at my job.
1. Cultivate a team effort.
It has to be a group effort for us. With 11 kids, each child has to take some age-appropriate responsibility. Of course, I am fortunate to have a wife who does a great job keeping everyone organized and focused. It may be difficult, but it’s important to delegate some of the duties around the house to the kids. What responsibilities can you delegate around the house?
2. Be present.
Being on top of things requires you to be present. When I’m at work, I need to focus on work. When I’m at home, I need to remove distractions so I can give my wife and my kids what they need. How can you be more present with work and family?
3. Cut out the non-essentials.
When you have a lot on your plate, you have to focus on what’s important and cut out the non-essentials.I used to play a lot of golf when I was younger. I don’t play much anymore because it’s too time-consuming. I love to get out and walk, see God’s handiwork, and pray. But I don’t have time to get out on my own anymore. I still pray, of course, but I find other ways to do it. When you have a lot on your plate, you have to focus on what’s really important and cut out the non-essentials. My wife and my kids are at the top of my priority list, so I removed the things that keep me from giving them my best. What do you need to remove?
Sound off: What do you do to manage your family and your job?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What is one thing you think you could take responsibility for around the house?”