Meet Jill Neil, 6 Tips for the Working Parent
Meet Jill Neil. She just celebrated her tenth year at Murad. Her specialty is Marketing and her passion is motherhood. As a full time working mom to a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old, she definitely has her hands full. We caught up with her recently to find out how she balances it all.
What does work-life balance mean to you?
Managing the time you dedicate to your work and lifestyle so that you experience achievement and enjoyment in both.
So often I feel that “work” is interpreted as a job you have to do and “life” is the stuff that makes you happy. But I have aspects of my job that make me very happy and aspects of my life that are hard work.
Work and life responsibilities can definitely feel like a juggling act. And the more things we’re juggling, the more important it is to manage the amount of time we dedicate to each one. But there never seem to be enough hours in the day… Therefore, time management is critical to achieving a healthy work-life balance. If we effectively manage the time we invest in our careers, our families, our relationships, our communities and our SELVES, we will feel a better sense of control and experience less stress.
How has your work-life balance changed since you had kids?
There has always been a balance. There are just more things to balance now – and some very important people in my life to balance them for. Before kids, the hours in the day were all mine. I had the option to arrive early or stay late at work, join coworkers for happy hour, spend an entire evening catching up on my favorite TV shows. The only schedule I had to adjust was my own. Now my routine is much more rigid, by choice and by necessity (as anyone with young kids will agree). I plan my workday so that I can leave right at 5 to stay on schedule for my job as a mom. If I’m running late, it affects my whole family – cranky kids, late dinner, late bedtime, less sleep, stressful morning, less patience. It becomes a vicious cycle and no one is happy. But when I’m diligent about sticking to the schedule, life is better for everyone. (Although I do miss those spontaneous happy hours…)
What are your tips for working parents – or anyone for that matter – trying to achieve a better work-life balance?
Identify your priorities. If you’re like me, you have a long list of all the things you’d like to dedicate your time to. But there are only so many hours in the day/week/year. Identify the relationships and responsibilities most important to you and make those your top priorities.
Make yourself a priority. Take care of yourself. Exercise, eat healthy, get enough sleep. Reduce stress by creating “me” time to pamper yourself and follow your passions. YOU are the most important person in the world. (Just ask Dr. Murad.)
Plan ahead as much as possible. Mornings are definitely the most stressful time at our house when we’re all rushing to get out the door. To cut down on this stress and make for happier mornings, use the night before to plan tomorrow’s outfits and prepare tomorrow’s lunches (yours included). Additionally, get in the habit of weekly meal planning so dinner is another stressful decision you don’t have to make at the end of the day.
Just say no. Of course you want to do it all. And you don’t want to let anyone down either. But if committing to something that doesn’t align with your priorities feels stressful before you even commit, just say no.
Say yes – and enjoy it! Saying no to the things you don’t care as much as about, allows you to really enjoy the things you love. Then your time is well spent without regret. (Really need a weekend away? Go for it! Use that time away to unwind so you can return focused and refreshed.)
Forget multi-tasking. Technology makes it easier than ever to multitask these days. But when you’re multi-tasking you’re not giving the project or person at hand your full attention. At work, prioritize your workload and tackle your projects one at a time to accomplish them faster. At home, give your kids (and spouse) your undivided attention – they need it, trust me! And don’t forget about yourself either. What good is a pedicure for stress relief if you’re checking work email on your mobile device?
How do you support the Murad Inclusive Health Vision of Looking, Living and Feeling #BetterEveryDay?
How do you LOOK BETTER?
I’m very diligent about my 3 step Murad skincare routine (plus toner and eye cream) every morning and evening – no matter how exhausted I am. And I ALWAYS wear SPF during the day. My routine includes: Refreshing Cleanser, alternated with AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Intensive Age-Diffusing Serum, Renewing Eye Cream, Perfecting Day Cream SPF 30 in the morning and Hydro-Dynamic® Ultimate Moisture at night. I also can’t live without Acne Treatment Concealer Medium and Soothing Skin and Lip Care – the perfect finishing touches.
How do you LIVE BETTER?
With 2 young kids I hardly ever have a chance to sit down at home – which is good because it keeps me active. During the week I find small ways to incorporate exercise into my workday, like walking to the store to buy healthy lunches for the week and taking the stairs in our parking structure.
In terms of nutrition, I’m a pretty healthy eater. Though I have a huge sweet tooth for baked goods – donuts, cookies, pie, you name it. Per Dr. Murad’s 20% rule, I enjoy the occasional splurge, but I do not keep any of these things in the house and dessert is only reserved for very special occasions. My kids are healthy eaters, too. They eat a ton of fresh fruits and veggies – more than I do! They are my daily reminder to include more water-rich foods into my diet.
How do you FEEL BETTER?
In my free time you will most likely find me playing with my kids, getting outdoors, taking pictures, planning parties, shopping, going on the occasional date with my husband and spending time with friends. I make sure to pamper myself with a facial, massage or mani/pedi from time to time as well.
If you weren’t at work what would you be doing?
Exploring new places around LA or SoCal with my kids. I love experiencing their joy as they discover new places. Whether it’s Disneyland, a resort pool in Palm Springs, a petting zoo at a local fair or a park in our neighborhood, to them it’s the most amazing place ever and it reminds me to really live in the moment.
We’re thrilled to have a working mom at Murad who inspires all parents to live happier, healthier and more balanced lives. Stay tuned for more great advice and insight from Jill here on the blog.
Are you a working parent? What does work-life balance mean to you? Share in the comments below.
