One of the most significant hurdles I faced after my separation was finding the right balance between being a single mom and nurturing my growing career. As a full-time single mother of three energetic teenagers and my younger son, along with my work in writing and editing, it became evident that working from home was the best option for me.
Transitioning into this new lifestyle was not instantaneous; it took patience, experimentation, and a lot of adjustments. Over time, I discovered a rhythm that allowed me to thrive both as a mom and a professional. Here are five effective strategies I employed to enhance my focus and productivity in my dual roles.
1. Establish Your Workspace
Determining the best spot to work took some time. Initially, I set up at my kitchen island, where I felt at ease. However, as my workload increased and I began taking on clients, I needed a more dedicated space. Eventually, I claimed what had been my ex-husband’s office area. While I do have a home office, I often find myself working in the family room, allowing me to stay engaged with my kids and resist constant snacking.
2. Create a Schedule
Building a business is labor-intensive and often requires extensive hours. I quickly found myself working late into the night and on weekends, which led to burnout. To combat this, I reassessed my daily routine, capitalizing on the quiet hours when my children were at school. I now set specific hours for work and family time, ensuring I have moments for myself, including a restful night’s sleep.
3. Plan Your Time Wisely
As my business grew, I realized the importance of managing my time effectively. I created a calendar to allocate hours for each client, which helped me stay organized and meet deadlines. This structure not only alleviated stress but also carved out extra time for business development and personal tasks that had been neglected.
4. Embrace Your Work
During an afternoon volunteering at my son’s school, a fellow parent asked about my job. When I mentioned that I work from home, she seemed surprised and questioned why I felt the need to clarify. I realized then that I was undervaluing my role. She encouraged me to assert that I do work, without caveats. It’s crucial to recognize that working from home holds equal value to any office job — work is work.
5. Set Clear Boundaries
Working from home doesn’t mean I’m available for interruptions. Unless it’s an emergency, I treat my work time as if I were commuting to an office. Limiting personal calls during the day is vital, as they can easily consume hours. It’s perfectly acceptable to let calls go to voicemail or politely tell friends that now isn’t a good time. By respecting my time, others will follow suit.
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In summary, finding balance as a work-at-home mom is achievable through establishing a workspace, creating a flexible schedule, managing your time, valuing your work, and setting clear boundaries. With these strategies, you can thrive in both your professional life and your family life.