She is the family cook, maid, tutor, doctor, pet caregiver, gardener, stylist, social planner, disciplinarian, and breadwinner. With such a full schedule, how can working mothers have a healthy work/life balance?

Women tend to play tug-of-war between career needs and spending time with their children. Too often, work is often the cause of that empty seat at the talent show or an absent cheerleader at a basketball game. Four-in-ten working moms said they missed at least one important occasion in their child’s life due to a work commitment.

Here are some tips to help working mothers gain a healthier work/life balance:

Seek Higher Ground
If your employer is not affording any flexibility, a new job may be the answer and it doesn’t have to involve a smaller paycheck. Seek out employers who offer competitive compensation and a demonstrated commitment to work/life balance.

Keep One Calendar
Schedule business and personal commitments on the same calendar to avoid overbooking yourself. This way you can avoid scheduling a client meeting at the same time as a basketball game or school play and save those vacation days for the big events in your children’s lives.

Turn Off the Television
While sitcoms and game shows can be fun, make time for activities where you are actively engaged with your children. Take a walk, schedule a game night, go to the park, etc. You can ask them about the best and worst part of their day, and tell them about yours also.

Schedule Dates
Schedule special one-on-one dates with each of your kids to do their favorite activity or start new traditions. And don’t forget to set aside a day for your husband and a day just for yourself.

Have No Regrets
Be honest about what you can and can’t do at home and manage expectations. Make your choices on where you need to be, recognize you’re doing your best and lose the guilt.

Source: Mary Delaney, CareerBuilder.com