Applying Grid Operator tactics to everyday motherhood

There are surprising similarities between grid operators and mothers. Let me explain.

Juggling the Now and Later

Just like grid operators are constantly focused on both the current stability of the grid and the future generation needs, mothers are always juggling the immediate tasks at hand with future plans. Whether it’s dinner time or school projects, I’m always keeping one eye on the present and one on the future. This ability to juggle the present and upcoming commitments mirrors the balancing act that grid operators perform in monitoring energy demands in real-time, while planning for the hours ahead.

Something that I learned from my control center days that I take into motherhood every day is the calm needed to operate.  Being infallible in the face of rolling black outs.... or rolling temper tantrums on the floor.  Sometimes they feel very similar.

Embracing the Unexpected

Adaptability is another key trait shared between grid operators and mothers. In grid management, unexpected changes are just part of the job. Similarly, my days at home rarely go as planned—there’s always something popping up! I’ve learned to roll with the punches and adjust my plans on the fly, whether it's adjusting to sudden shifts in energy demands or accommodating surprise plans at home, the ability to embrace the unexpected and adjust plans on the fly is essential for success.

Trusting Your Support Crew

Just like grid managers rely on their team, I know I can’t do it all alone at home. I lean on my partner, family, and friends to help when things get hectic. Sharing the load and having a strong support system makes a huge difference and helps me navigate the chaos of motherhood! Trusting and relying on a support crew is crucial for maintaining sanity and finding balance in both grid management and motherhood.