As my husband’s travel commitments have gradually increased over the years, it feels like a stealthy thief has crept in and whisked away my sanity. Left behind with just the kids, I often wonder how much I truly relied on him to share the load—whether it’s grabbing that last-minute grocery item, waking up when a kid has a nightmare, or simply having an adult to chat with about the rollercoaster of parenting.
In the beginning, I was completely unprepared for how hard it would be to manage everything solo. While the kids seemed unfazed by his absence, I quickly found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of responsibilities that had shifted solely onto my shoulders. After a few days of solo parenting, I was left drained and disheartened. (A quick shoutout to military spouses and single parents—you are absolute champions in this arena!)
Over the years, I’ve had my share of great moments and tough challenges while parenting alone during my husband’s work trips. Here are some tips for those of you who find yourselves in a similar situation:
- Tame Your Envy
Sure, he’s working, but let’s be real—he’s dining at chic restaurants, enjoying hotel comforts, and experiencing a change of scenery. Meanwhile, I’m knee-deep in macaroni and cheese and enduring the epic tales from my 10-year-old. It’s hard not to feel a pang of jealousy when he’s living it up while I’m stuck at home. - Dinner? What’s That?
When my husband is away, gourmet meals are non-existent. Our dinners often consist of popcorn, ice cream, or breakfast-for-dinner scenarios. We embrace our inner college kids, lounging in front of ’80s movies instead of sitting at a dining table. - Avoid the Late-Night Binge
When the kids are finally tucked in, I tend to stay up way too late. The temptation to binge-watch shows and indulge in a little too much wine is real. But this only amplifies my exhaustion and makes the next day more challenging. - Keep Your Cool
Invest in some home security or consider getting a big dog for peace of mind. It’s easy to let your imagination run wild at night when you’re the only adult in the house. I’ve learned that it’s best to not freak myself out when the house is quiet. - Don’t Play Superhero
You can’t do it all. It’s okay to let some things slide. As long as the kids are fed and clothed, you’re doing just fine. - Kids Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Trust me, they don’t care if they haven’t bathed in days or if the house looks like a tornado hit it. Their happiness is more important than the state of your home. - Stick to a Routine
Maintaining a consistent routine is crucial. When everything stays on track, it helps keep the kids content, which in turn makes my life easier. - Coffee, Coffee, Coffee
After those late nights and sleepless mornings, coffee becomes your best friend. You’ll need it to keep up with everything. - Utilize Technology
FaceTime has been a lifesaver. It helps me feel less isolated when I can connect with my husband, family, and friends while he’s away. It’s almost like he’s still part of our daily lives—though I try to ignore that he’s enjoying fine dining while I’m still in my pajamas! - Remember, They Live Here Too
When your partner returns, it can be tough to adjust. I often forget that they have a role in the parenting dynamic, leading to some friction. Remembering to share the reins can make the transition smoother.
If your partner frequently travels for work, know that you’re not alone. It can be both liberating and isolating. Even when the chaos seems unbearable—like during those weeks when everyone comes down with a stomach bug—you can get through it. Embrace the journey, and you might just discover something new about yourself along the way. For more tips on navigating these kinds of situations, check out our post on the Home Insemination Kit.
Summary
Managing solo parenting when your partner travels for work can feel overwhelming, but with a few strategies in place, you can navigate the chaos. From taming jealousy about their travels to sticking to routines and embracing technology for connections, it’s about finding balance. Remember, every day is a new opportunity to learn about resilience and adaptability as a parent.