No, Seriously Not Everyone CAN do it: the plight of the work from home mom.

Look, I get it, it seems like a solid choice, there is a lot of appealing reasons to seek it out. But let's be honest... working from home is not for everyone!

As a mom and business owner working from home seems like the natural and best choice for you and your. You get to be more available to your kids, you get more time to attend to your household tasks and the best part, you don't have to put on a bra!!! However, the reality is that working from home adds another spinning plate to your already chaotic existence as a mom. The balancing act can often feel overwhelming.

The line between work and home life blurs, and it can be challenging to find time for yourself amidst the chaos. This is where some strategic planning becomes crucial and having the knowledge of how to make it work, makes it possible to create a harmonious balance that allows you to thrive in both roles. 

I have been working from home since before I had kids in various jobs but it wasn't until I became fully responsible for the productivity of my own business that I recognized I needed to tighten the reigns and come up with a plan to get my ish in order! So, here is what I have learned to keep myself organized and productive while also being present and available to the kiddos:

Tips for Keeping Yourself in Check

1. Set Clear Boundaries: Designate specific work hours and communicate them to your family. Create a dedicated workspace that signals to both you and your family when it’s time to work. This helps in minimizing interruptions and maintaining focus.

2. Prioritize Self-Care: I know its beating a dead horse but, it’s crucial to carve out time for yourself. Schedule regular breaks throughout your day to recharge. Whether it’s a quick walk, a workout, or simply a few moments of quiet meditation, self-care is essential for maintaining your mental and physical health.

3. Delegate and Outsource: You don’t have to do it all!!! Delegate household chores to other family members and consider outsourcing tasks like cleaning or grocery shopping. In your business, seek to delegate tasks to employees or hire freelancers for specific projects.

4. Plan and Organize: Use planners, calendars, and task management apps to stay organized. (stay tuned for my favorites for managing my neurodivergent household!) Plan your week in advance, prioritizing both work tasks and family activities. This helps ensure that important tasks are not overlooked and that there’s time allocated for fun and relaxation.

5. Set Realistic Goals: Be realistic about what you can accomplish in a day. Set achievable goals and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. This helps in reducing the feeling of overwhelm and maintaining a positive outlook.

Now, I do need to point out that there is need for upholding the idea of "balance"  and remembering do fun things as well. (Disclaimer: I don't really like the word balance because it implies an even split and that is just not the case.  Motherhood and life in general does not come with an equal split EVER!!! Needs, demands and requirements are constantly changing so when I say balance I more imagine buying a round cake for yourself and cutting pieces based on your at the time need for sweets.) So while we're not looking for equal balance here we are looking to spread ourselves in a way that keeps us grounded and present but also aware and capable. 

This means we are making space for fun and enjoyable things for the kids as well. Here are some of the tips I have for making sure you keep your level of balance where it needs to be for everyone! 

Maintaining Time for Fun Activities

1. Family Activities: Schedule regular family activities that everyone can enjoy together. Whether it’s a game night, a weekend hike, or a movie marathon, these activities help strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.

2. Personal Hobbies: Make time for your hobbies and interests. Whether it’s reading, gardening, painting, or any other activity that brings you joy, dedicating time to your passions is crucial for personal fulfillment.

3. Quality Over Quantity: Focus on the quality of the time you spend with your family rather than the quantity. Even short, meaningful interactions can have a significant impact. Be fully present during these moments, putting away work and other distractions.

4. Flexible Schedule: Embrace flexibility in your schedule. Some days might require more focus on work, while others might demand more attention to family. Adapt and adjust as needed, and don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go exactly as planned.

5. Incorporate Fun into Daily Routine: Find small ways to incorporate fun into your daily routine. Dance in the kitchen while making dinner, have a mini-picnic in the backyard, or take a spontaneous family bike ride. These little moments of joy can make a big difference.

Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to create a fulfilling and successful life at home. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, delegating tasks, and making time for fun activities, you can navigate the complexities of both roles and find harmony in your daily life. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about doing your best and enjoying the journey.