As a freelance writer and a mom, I’ve been navigating the world of remote work and parenting for nearly five years. While I appreciate the flexibility that comes with my job and the chance to raise my daughter, my previous full-time gig at a bustling magazine was a breeze compared to this! Sure, I can control my schedule, enjoy a quiet lunch, and even answer nature’s call without a little one clinging to me, but that doesn’t mean my life is a walk in the park. So, here are four things you should definitely avoid saying to someone who works from home:
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“At least you can take a nap whenever you want.”
Just because I’m close to my bed doesn’t mean I can actually rest! My day is filled with constant tasks — from sending emails and taking calls to managing school meetings and hunting down my daughter’s costume for dress-up day. Every moment is precious, and the idea of taking a break feels like a luxury I can’t afford. And yes, I get tired, even while working from home! -
“What do you actually do all day?”
Many people assume that working from home is synonymous with doing nothing. I get it; it’s hard to believe that I can fill a full workweek from my living room. But if those skeptics tried balancing a demanding job with the antics of a lively toddler, they would quickly change their tune! I’m not out brunching with friends or binging on reality TV — I’m hustling to meet deadlines before the chaos of parenting kicks in. -
“You’re at home, how can you say you have no time?”
There’s a strange twist to working from home: while office hours can feel dragged out, time flies when you’re juggling tasks at home. It’s not procrastination; it’s the rush of needing to accomplish everything at once! I might be working on my laptop, but my eyes often drift to the laundry pile or the dishes in the sink. Before I know it, the day has slipped away, and I’m left wondering where the time went. -
“You must be so much less stressed now.”
Sure, I don’t miss the daily commute on overcrowded trains or the office drama, but that doesn’t mean my life is stress-free. The unique chaos of managing work and parenting can be overwhelming, especially when a sick child throws a wrench into an important deadline! Suddenly, all those babysitters I relied on for backup seem to vanish. Stress-free? I wish!
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In conclusion, working from home as a mother is no simple task. The misconceptions surrounding it can be frustrating, but understanding the complexities can lead to greater empathy and support for those of us managing this balancing act.