Having spent over a decade working from home as a writer and podcaster, I’ve navigated the ups and downs of remote work through various life changes, including new babies and the occasional furry companion. Here are three insights I’ve gathered about balancing a home-based business with family life:
Distractions are Part of the Package
When you work from home, you quickly learn that your house is full of life—people and pets alike. This means that as you try to focus on your professional tasks, you’ll often find yourself surrounded by distractions that have nothing to do with your work.
If you have children at home, the sounds of their favorite shows may provide a backdrop to your important tasks. A dog might nudge you for attention while it lounges in a sunbeam, or a cat could decide that your keyboard is the perfect nap spot. And if you’re pet-free, you might find yourself envying the peaceful life of a neighbor tending to their garden.
When distractions become overwhelming, remember: you have the freedom to step away. Whether it’s enjoying a quick break in your garden, catching an episode of a kids’ show, or simply soaking up some sun on the floor, it’s okay to indulge in these little escapes. After all, you’re in control of your own schedule!
The 9 to 5 Routine is a Myth
In a conventional office setting, there’s a natural rhythm that allows for breaks and a steady pace. However, working from home means redefining that rhythm entirely. Over the years, I’ve learned to see schedules as guidelines rather than strict rules. Some days, I might be incredibly productive by mid-afternoon, while other days, I might just stare out the window for hours.
This newfound freedom does come with its challenges. Since I work from home, I could theoretically be at my desk around the clock (and sometimes I am!). I’ve had moments of crankiness when others intrude on my flexible work style, leading me to cancel appointments just to cherish my autonomy. And that tempting mid-morning nap? It requires a bit of planning to ensure I’ve checked off my to-do list beforehand—or that I haven’t been derailed by unexpected issues.
What’s the takeaway? Being your own boss can be liberating, but it also demands that you seize opportunities for productivity while staying ready to tackle work when necessary. I wouldn’t trade this flexibility for a structured lunch break or paid vacation.
Embrace the Unpredictable
Anyone who has worked for themselves knows that the day you plan for uninterrupted productivity is the day the Internet decides to go down, the babysitter cancels, or your dog makes a break for it. Unlike a regular job, where you might have coworkers to share the load, when you’re self-employed, it’s all on you.
You’re responsible for everything—from deadlines to client communication and financial matters. While this can feel overwhelming, it also means you become adept at distinguishing between what’s urgent and what can wait. You learn to be selective about who you let in during your busiest hours and how to ignore distractions that don’t serve your goals.
When your spouse is hovering or your kids are clamoring for attention, you find creative ways to juggle it all—whether that’s taking a lunch break with your partner or hitting mute during a call to cuddle with your child. You do this because it’s the nature of your life; you thrive in the chaos.
And if you ever find yourself contemplating a return to a traditional job while waiting for a client payment, remember that this wild ride is your choice. It may be chaotic, but it’s your chaos—and you wouldn’t have it any other way.
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Summary
Working from home as a parent involves navigating distractions, redefining routines, and embracing unpredictability. While the freedom can be chaotic, it allows for a unique blend of work and family life that many cherish.