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Parenting -
General
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Working from home can be a wonderful experience, particularly if you have small children. Not having to worry about daycare costs or missing work when your little one is sick is a mother’s dream. Unfortunately, that dream can quickly turn into a nightmare as you attempt to handle your young children while still having the time to work. Learning how to make better use of your time is important, particularly for those working from home. In order to get in the hours that you need for work each week and have quality time with your family, you will need a few productivity strategies.
One way that you can combat having to work around rowdy children is to begin earlier. Get up at least one hour before your children do every morning and get some quality work time in before you begin your motherly duties. This also gives you time to prioritize your work schedule and plan for your day. When your children first wake up they should get your full attention. By beginning earlier, you will have time to get work tasks organized and still be able to devote time to your children every morning.
Developing a routine is very important. It should only take a week or so for you and your family to get used to your work schedule. Get your children into a routine that helps your mornings run smoothly. Do the same schedule every day without actually punching a clock. You can set up activities for your children to enjoy while you are working and then explain to them that this is your work time and that they should play quietly while you work. If you can afford to do so, you can hire a part-time nanny to help with younger children so that you can get your work finished each day. Even if you just have someone over for one or two hours each day, you may be surprised at how much work you can get done in those quiet hours.
You do not need to set a specific time that you will be working each day. Instead of saying “I will work from 1pm until 4pm”, simply say “I will get in at least 3 hours of work today”. You can do this while your children are napping or while their favorite cartoon is on television. You could even work after dad returns home in the evenings or after you put your children to bed. The key is in making time where you have time. Remember, your family comes first but work is also important so try to stick to your set hours each day. You will need to be a bit flexible when it comes to working at home with children but you should not completely abandon your work when your children refuse to cooperate. You can stop working for a bit and take the children outdoors to expel some energy. When you come back inside, they will likely be a bit tired and allow you to get back to the task at hand. Be creative when it comes to juggling work and family.
It is important not to lose sight of why you wanted to work from home. Most moms want to work from their homes to have more time to spend with their families. This means that you should enjoy the moment. Give your children the attention that they want and simply find time for work when they are busy with other activities or sleeping. In the long run you will be much happier if you are not trying to work when your children really just want you to stop for a few moments and play with them.
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