Being a mom is challenging, but being a work-from-home mom presents its own set of unique difficulties. With the rise of remote work and new working methods, many moms now work from home while simultaneously trying to raise their children, scrub the loo, do the dishes and cook nutritious meals for the family.
It's no wonder that balancing parenting and work can seem impossible, as moms simultaneously try to juggle their responsibilities to their employers, children, and endless household chores. Sound like a job for a multi-armed mutant ninja warrior? That's because it is!
Fortunately, there are several work-from-home parent tips and tricks to help you stay productive, focused, and for the most part, sane.
Parent Tips for Work-From-Home Moms
Below are ten Piper Finn tips for working from home effectively while balancing parenting and work responsibilities.
#1 Set Up a Dedicated Workspace:
The first step to working from home productively is to create a dedicated workspace. This should be separate from your living and communal areas and ideally quiet with minimal distractions. Ensure your work area is comfortable, well-lit, and equipped with everything you need.
#2 Create a Routine:
Routine is incredibly important for work-from-home moms, as it helps with focus and remaining on task. Establishing a daily routine will help you create structure and maintain a sense of normalcy, even when it feels as though your work and family life are intertwined.
#3 Communicate with Your Employer:
Working from home can be a tricky subject, particularly when it comes to communicating with your employer. Ensure you have clear guidelines detailing your work schedule and available hours to answer emails, calls, or attend meetings. Having clear expectations in place means misunderstandings are avoided, and everyone is on the same page.
#4 Set Boundaries:
A big struggle experienced when balancing work and parenting is the blurring of boundaries between work life and home life. When you work from home, it can feel like you are always "on duty" and thus expected to work. To avoid this, set clear boundaries between work time and family time. Make sure you disconnect from work when your workday ends, and don't let work time spill over into your family time.
#5 Prioritize Your Tasks:
It's easy to get overwhelmed when you have a lot on your plate, so it's essential to prioritize your tasks. Take time at the beginning of each day to identify the critical tasks for the day and tackle them first. Planning your daily workload will help you stay focused and ensure you utilize your time efficiently.
#6 Consider Using Productivity Tools:
There are several online productivity tools available that can help you stay on track and remain productive, as they can help you manage your time, track your progress, or set reminders. Some popular tools for work-from-home moms include Trello, Rescue Time, and Focus@Will.
#7 Be Flexible:
Working from home requires flexibility, as you will undoubtedly need to juggle unexpected interruptions and last-minute changes like broken-down boilers, sick kiddies or missing pets. Yes, the workday of a work-from-home mom is never boring! If you are willing to adjust your schedule and adapt to changing circumstances, it will help you minimize stress and maintain your productivity levels.
#8 Take Breaks:
Now, we're not suggesting you become a couch potato and lie on the couch all day; but taking regular breaks is essential to productivity. You know how easy it is to get caught up with deadlines and workload when working from home, but this is definitely counterproductive. Hands up, all those moms who have found they sit down to work at 9 am only to find that 5 pm has crept up on them without having stopped for lunch?
Sadly, this type of work ethic is bound to have a negative effect on your mental and physical health. Instead, make sure that you take breaks throughout the day to stretch your legs, get outside, or spend time with your family. Regular breaks will help you stay refreshed and energized throughout the day.
#9 Outsource When Possible:
As a work-from-home mom, there will be times when you simply can't do everything yourself. Don't be afraid to outsource certain tasks, whether that means hiring a babysitter, outsourcing household chores, or delegating tasks to other members of your team at work.
#10 Practice Self Care:
Finally, don't forget to practice good self care. Working from home can be incredibly lonely and isolating, so it's important to recharge yourself. Whether that means taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, or indulging in your favorite hobby, make sure you take care of yourself amid all the chaos.
Last Word
Being a work-from-home mom is no easy feat, but with the right strategies and techniques in place, it can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. By prioritizing your tasks, communicating openly with your employer, and practising self-care, you can maintain productivity and balance your work and family responsibilities. Remember, finding the right balance will take time and patience, but with these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to success.
Image by StartupStockPhotos from Pixabay
