Last but definitely not least, one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your kids feel as important as they are is to be flexible. Be flexible in life. Be flexible because things are going to change. You know the one thing that’s constant in our lives that we can’t change is the amount of hours we have in a day—we have 24 hours in a day. Sometimes, we need to be flexible and adjust to the opportunities that arise each day. Something that we thought was non-negotiable may suddenly need to become negotiable. Flexibility in our schedules is key. If your child is homesick and you have a full slate of meetings, but your child needs you, that’s not something I’m going to delegate—that’s something I’m going to take care of. I need to be there for my child. I need to nurture and care for them so they know that they are my priority. That’s the flexibility we need in our lives.
Ultimately, flexibility is about creating a balance that reflects your values and priorities. It’s not about having everything perfectly planned, but being willing to adjust and respond to what truly matters in the moment. When your child sees that you can shift gears and make time for them, it not only strengthens your bond but also teaches them the importance of adaptability. Life will always present challenges and unexpected moments, but by showing up when it counts, you give your child the invaluable gift of knowing they are loved and supported, no matter what life throws your way.
When you start to implement these five things, that parent guilt for being so busy starts to fade away because the quality of time you spend with your children begins to expand. It’s not about the quantity of hours in the day, but about how deeply you engage with your children in the moments you do have. As you focus on these priorities—whether it’s being more present, setting boundaries, or nurturing their emotional needs—you begin to create a rhythm where your time together feels meaningful, not rushed. You’ll notice that even on busy days, the connection you share with your kids becomes stronger, and you find joy in the small moments. Your child won’t remember how many hours you worked or how packed your schedule was; they’ll remember the love, attention, and care you gave them in those moments when you showed up fully present. This shift in perspective allows you to embrace your role as a parent with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that even on the busiest days, you are giving your children something truly valuable—your time, your attention, and your love.
Listen to the full episode here:
“How busy parents find time with their kids?”
For more parenting content, visit my Podcast Redefine Parenting Show: