Motherhood-plus-paid-employment is a gritty juggling act. A lot has been said about the Aha moment that will somehow deliver us from stress. I prefer to check in more frequently to moderate my stress before it gets out of control. Mothers at home and at work know instantly whether something they are doing is right for the business or right for the family. The one question that will probably require more insight and reflection is whether a decision is right for oneself. Now, I know it is far easier to just get busy and stay busy than to reflect on taking some time on your own. My current solution to this is to lay in bed first thing in the morning and shove my to do list to the side while I check in with how I am feeling, to sense what things are important to address today. This is very different from blasting through the list. This is listening time -- listening to what is inside me to get a feeling for what is true and right. No critics are allowed in during this morning time reflection. Self criticism is an especially tough bird to keep out, but I am finding it worth the effort. One benefit of a busy life is that some decisions get made or fade away due to inattention. If I am too busy to return a call, I am probably dodging another volunteer opportunity or social event I would only half enjoy. By holding some internal listening time for myself I notice I am becoming a better listener throughout the day. When I stop typing and face my son to really listen to him, he visibly relaxes and gets to the point. Hhmm, less stressful for him and for me. Ohhmm....