Quality Time is better than Quantity Time???

Several nights back, my husband and I had one of the many wonderful chats about life… Even if he’s far (he’s in China while I’m in the Philippines), he is still someone I consider my best friend. I can share with him everything and anything at all. A lot of times I know he’s tired and exhausted but when we chat and I need someone to share my heart out, he tries his best to comfort me. The latest incident was a few nights ago when I felt so guilty of being so busy with something that is good, yet I felt it’s taking me away from the kids so in turn, it’s starting to become bad.

I discussed this topic with my husband and here’s what he told me:

” I know that it’s hard for you there.  Just make sure may outlet ka. You can’t be with the kids 24 hours. My boss told me something I cannot forget: Quantity doesn’t equate to Quality. An hour of undivided attention is better than 8 hours of casual time. If you keep on thinking that it will harm them if you deny them of attention, then you’ll never get your peace… Take a break tomorrow.  Plan for EJ’s activities. He’ll not be better by sticking around you. He needs to be exposed. Why don’t you ask Mikoy (EJ’s cousin) to teach him dancing? Check also if there’s Milo training… Stop thinking about it na. Tulog na (Go to sleep). ”

So the next day, I followed my sweetheart’s wise counsel and it worked Inspite the physical tiredness, I am not stressed anymore And no more guilt feelings. I am so blessed my husband supports and encourages me. He is right. I was guilty because I thought of quantity time – I spent lesser time with the kids now. BUT in terms of quality, I know in my heart  that I am spending quality time with them. THAT made me feel I wasn’t neglecting my responsibilities of being a mom and I believe they are well aware that I love them very much.

So to you working moms out there who felt guilty at one time or the other for spending little time with the kids, especially moms who are the bread winners of their families, be encouraged. Quantity doesn’t equate to Quality. An hour of undivided attention is better than 8 hours of casual time. And if you think you’re stressed, HAVE A BREAK… RECHARGE… REFUEL… CHANGE OIL. Take some steps to gain back your joy. The kids don’t like angry mama’s

BUT wait… Here’s an action item for you:

Go to google and search: QUALITY TIME WITH CHILDREN vs. QUANTITY TIME WITH CHILDREN. You’ll see there are different views and it’s one of the longest debates. Every child has a special need and his own love language. Get to know your child and find out what language of love he understands. Also, get to know yourself. Not everyone is called to be a full time mom, not everyone can afford it. One mother I know told me she’s a better mother when she’s out the whole day and goes home after work to spend time with the children. When she was a full time mom, she was like an angry wolf the whole day!

Quality or Quantity? You decide.