Juggling both children and a career can be very hard work. So, have you considered working from home? It is a fantastic option for moms who need flexible working. Employers are wising up to the fact that parents need more support that they have been getting in the past. As a result, you may be able to convince yours to allow this change.
However, how will you manage if it does go ahead? Sure, the benefits are many. No more commute, no need to get dressed smartly! However, when you have children, it can be a tad more complicated.
Let’s look at ways that you can successfully work from home when you have children.
Create a dedicated space
Trying to work from the kitchen table simply won’t do! Do you have a room in the house that you don’t current use, or use properly? Maybe you have a room you use to store things you need to throw away! Or a walk-in wardrobe that you don’t use. If not, you will need to find the space elsewhere. Consider hiring a Granny Flats building company to come and construct you one of their flat in your garden. It will give you a physical space away from the home itself, while still being close enough! Even if you don’t plan to work from home, Granny Flats are so versatile you will always find a use for it. You could turn it into a teenage retreat, or as your parents age a Granny Flat!
Set the boundaries
If you have children old enough to understand (so not newborns!), it is important that you set the rules early on. If you don’t, then they will be surprised when you announce the rules later, and it may cause issues and tantrums. They need to understand that the space in which you work is just for you. It can’t be used as a play area! They also need to know that they can’t mess around with your work equipment, as any damage could disastrous. Remind them that as their bedroom is their space, your office is your space.
Create three schedules
If you are going to successfully balance home life and work life, you will need three schedules in your office. These are all work schedules. The first is a monthly schedule. It should consist of everything you need to have to your boss or clients by the end of that month. The second should be a weekly schedule. Here, you can break down the tasks into days. It’s also a helpful way of seeing how many hours you’re working. Finally, make a daily schedule. This final one is potentially the most important. It will help you keep a focused and motivated. When there are other distractions are around, you may be tempted to keep flitting between tasks. However, you will get your work done faster and to a higher standard if you have a schedule that keeps you focused. It will also motivate you to get done so you can go and spend time with the family and relax!
