What PR pros have in common with mothers

Warning: Reading this article may exhaust you. The author is one of those disconcerting people who meet a monumental new task in life and rejoice in its difficulties. Here’s how she does it.

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Almost one year ago, I became a parent. Most new moms agree that #momlife is not what they expected. Little did I know that mom-hood would have things in common with life as a PR pro:

(1) Days start early. I used to set my alarm for 5:35 a.m. so I could get a workout before my work day. Now I don’t need my alarm because my tot wakes me up at 6:00 a.m.—when she sleeps in.

(2) Caffeine fixes. Morning and afternoon lattes are a must. As a PR pro, that first sip of coffee was a moment of zen before I jumped into whatever I was working on. My caffeine fix continues to provide me with a fleeting moment of relaxation, but now a quick espresso is the only way to go!

(3) Great negotiating skills required. At the office you constantly use these skills with clients, colleagues and reporters. At home, they become indispensable for naps, feedings and everything else!

(4) Prioritization. Lists, schedules, calendars, whiteboards. They make your desk and household run like a well-oiled machine.

(5) Running around. PR pros are always on a deadline: finding a story, meeting a client, running against the clock. Mom-life is much the same: play dates, classes, feedings, walks, naps, food prep and the like keep you on your toes.

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