I never imagined I'd be a work-from-home mom. I was always a 9-5 full-time employee outside the home. Sometimes, I only saw my kids for an hour or two per day. Sometimes, I'd get home after dinner was done. Sometimes, even after the kids were in bed. But now that I do- I'd never go back to an office environment. The time I get to spend with my kids, even while still working full time- is simply priceless.
BUT-- balancing work and family life from home can also be challenging. At first, the kids didn't respect the fact that I was still actually working. I'd be on a work call, and they'd just come into my office and start talking to me or asking for things. However, we all adapted quickly.
And a huge part of that was establishing boundaries and creating an awesome workspace. I'd love to share my practical tips to create a productive work-from-home space that fits seamlessly into your busy mom life.
1. Embrace the Power of Planning:
Start your day by setting clear goals and priorities. Jot down tasks the night before or early in the morning. Create a sort of roadmap that will help you stay on track and make the most of your time. There are several online platforms you can use to organize your day, but I'm old-fashioned. I use a planner and a notebook with "to-do" lists.
2. Carve Out a Dedicated Work Nook:
While your little ones are buzzing around, find a cozy corner to call your own. If you don't have a space for an office, even a small desk or a quiet nook can signal your family that you're in work mode. I personally like to work right on the couch or kitchen island. But be sure to set boundaries. When you're working, they need to respect your time.
3. Declutter Your Zone: Less is More A clutter-free environment equals a clutter-free mind. Keep only the essentials on your desk. Use shelves or storage solutions to stow away items you don't need daily. Life with kids is chaotic enough -- don't add chaos to your workspace.
4. Inspiring Visuals: Decorate your work area with motivational quotes, artwork, or a vision board. Surrounding yourself with positive imagery can keep you motivated and remind you of your goals.
5. Playtime and Productivity, Hand in Hand:
Let's be real – smaller kids are all about exploring. If you have younger kiddos at home, set up your workspace close to their play area. This way, you can keep an eye on them while plugging away on your tasks. They can still see you and feel safe that mom is close by. You still get to be productive. Win-win!
6. Divide and Conquer Time:
If you have the ability to work your own schedule, split your day into chunks that match your kids' routines. Work during their naptime or when they're engrossed in activities. Short, focused bursts can be surprisingly effective.
7. Supercharge Snack Stations:
I cannot stress this enough - prep snacks and drinks in advance. This reduces interruptions tremendously. If your kids are anything like mine, they're hungry every 5 minutes. If the snacks are already ready and accessible (bottom drawer or shelf), they can get the snacks themselves. It's a lifesaver!
8. The Silent Productivity Signal:
If you are on a work call, answering an important email and you absolutely need complete concentration- create a visual signal. It can be something as simple as wearing a specific hat or having a special 'work' cup. This lets your kids know when you're in deep concentration mode and to only disturb you if there is an emergency.
9. Family Inclusion: Kid-Friendly Zone:
If you have an actual office in your home, designate an area where your kids can engage in quiet activities nearby. This helps you keep an eye on them while you work and encourages independent play. They can even have their own small desks where they can "work" too.
10. Involve the Tiny Assistants:
Speaking of working -- depending on their age, involve your kids in your work. They might enjoy helping with simple tasks or feeling included in your daily routine. My son always loved using my "paid" stamp on invoices.
11. Celebrate Your Wins:
At the end of the day, take a moment to celebrate what you've achieved. Whether big or small, every step counts, and you're doing an amazing job.
Remember, mama, you've got the incredible ability to balance both work and motherhood. With a pinch of planning, a dash of creativity, and a sprinkle of patience, you'll craft a productive work-from-home haven that works wonders for you and your family.
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