24/03/2024
March is MS Awareness month & this is how I incorporate Project Management into my life as a mom with MS. It still feels unreal to bring awareness to something that I used to think was a career-killer. But this reminds me that we can change and pivot at any time.
Life with MS can feel like it’s own project. (Well, at least projects have an end date 🙃)
There’s moving parts that have to timed just right, and others that require too many follow-ups to help me get the best medical care we all deserve. After my son, however, I knew it would take more than a to-do list to keep things straight. I told myself I could just handle this with a to-do list or calendar.
But project management isn’t just about setting dates any more than being a mom is about free hugs. (We all know that post-tantrum toddler hugs ain’t really “free.”)
What changed?
🪷 I started viewing each day as a (mini) project
🐍 I got clear about how I wanted our days to look and feel (defined my desired outcome)
🐍 I was honest with myself about what I could accomplish each day instead of beating myself up over what I didn’t do (realistic schedule 🤝🏾 priorities)
🐍 I started using tools (my current favorite is Notion) to keep track of doctors’ appointments, quality time with my son, and my billable work. (keep tracking the details, simple)
🐍 As a busy mom, I’m learned to outsource, just like I would delegate in a project management team. (get the right support to get the outcome you’re looking for)
🐍 At the end of each day, I reflect on what worked and what didn’t, so I could better prepare for success the next day. (finish your project with data that prepares you for the next one)
The transition to being a parent or a person living with MS is a change that can make anyone feel lost. I went back to what felt natural to me: staying ready, so I don’t have to get ready (see: risk management). Like when Tiny Human™️ might need more time or when my immune system thinks I’m an opp.
MS or not, life can feel unnecessarily complicated. But managing it like a project, has increased the harmony in my life. 🪷