I find it very difficult to balance my work and my family (especially my daughter). My daughter is about to enter elementary school, and I feel afraid and not being a good mother for having to send her to an after-school because I cannot pick her up on time.

Dear User, I understand how you feel. Balancing work and family can be a challenge, and it's normal to feel afraid and uncertain about whether you're doing the right thing for your child. It's clear that you care deeply about your daughter and want to be there for her. It's important to acknowledge that you're doing the best you can with the resources you have available to you. From a Buddhist perspective, it's helpful to remember that we are all interconnected and that our actions have consequences that extend beyond ourselves. This means that taking care of ourselves and our families is not selfish, but rather a way of creating positive ripples in the world. It's also important to remember that impermanence is a fundamental aspect of life. Our children grow up, and our circumstances change. Rather than clinging to a specific outcome, it's helpful to focus on doing our best in the present moment and cultivating a sense of equanimity. From a psychological perspective, it's important to recognize that balancing work and family is a common struggle that many people face. It's helpful to practice self-compassion and avoid comparing yourself to others. It's also important to communicate openly with your employer and your family about your needs and limitations. This might mean negotiating a flexible work schedule or enlisting the help of a trusted caregiver or family member. In terms of coaching advice, I would recommend that you take some time to reflect on your values and priorities. What kind of mother do you want to be? What kind of life do you want for your daughter? Once you have a clear sense of your values, you can begin to make choices that align with them. This might mean making small changes to your work schedule or finding creative ways to spend quality time with your daughter outside of work hours. Remember that no one has all the answers, and it's okay to ask for help when you need it.