Project Management: When It Feels Like Babysitting

Being a project manager can sometimes feel less like orchestrating complex initiatives and more like babysitting. Don’t get me wrong—I love the craft of project management. The frameworks, the roadmaps, the elegant satisfaction of turning chaos into clarity—that’s the good stuff. But on the ground, day-to-day, there are moments where the role shifts from “strategic leader” to “the one making sure everyone eats their vegetables.”

Herding Cats (With Deadlines)

Every PM has been there: you’ve clearly outlined the tasks, assigned owners, set deadlines, and sent reminders. And yet, come status update day, someone says, “Oh, was I supposed to finish that by today?” Cue the deep breath, the gentle nudge, and the recalibration of timelines. In those moments, it feels like reminding kids to put their shoes on before leaving the house—necessary, but not exactly glamorous.

The Constant Reminders

Project managers often serve as the memory of the project. We track the moving parts so others don’t have to, but this also means repeating instructions, clarifying details, and ensuring nothing slips. It’s not unlike babysitting—where you’re constantly reminding someone to wash their hands, pick up their toys, or stay on schedule for bedtime. The difference is that in project management, those “kids” might be seasoned professionals who simply have other priorities tugging at them.

Emotional Management

Beyond tasks and timelines, there’s also the human side. Team members may get frustrated, disengaged, or distracted. As the PM, you’re often the one smoothing things over, boosting morale, or coaxing collaboration. It’s a lot like refereeing disputes over toys, except the “toys” are budgets, resources, and executive attention.

Why It Matters

The “babysitting” aspect isn’t a sign of weakness in project management—it’s a reflection of its importance. Teams are made of people, not machines. People forget, get busy, or clash. Babysitting moments remind us that successful projects depend as much on interpersonal coordination as they do on planning and execution.

Embracing the Role

Instead of resisting the babysitting analogy, I’ve learned to embrace it. Yes, sometimes I’m the nagging voice or the steady hand guiding people back on track. But that’s part of the value I bring. If babysitting ensures the project makes it across the finish line, then so be it—I’ll happily carry the diaper bag and the schedule.

Morgan

Project Manager, Business Analyst, Artist, and Creator.

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