Working at the comfort of your home sure sounds like an amazing opportunity for mothers but working from home at the same time looking after your kids, especially toddlers, isn't the easiest task in the world. Imagine in the middle of a conference call with a client when your child pooped or asked for milk. You either go on with your task and let your child finish on his own and pray that his dirt will not leak out his diaper or hold the call and deal with your child's mess at once. The former may be the most popular choice as choosing the latter can be detrimental to your job.
I've been working from home for over a year now and here are some tips I can share on how to survive being a WAHM (work at home mom) based on my own experience.
Find the most suitable job opportunity for you
The types of job we can find online vary - full time with fixed schedule, full time with flexible schedule, part time with fixed schedule and part time with flexible schedule. There are also project-based opportunities if you are not keen on doing long-term job commitments. For me, the most ideal is the part time flexible since it gives me the freedom to get the job done whenever I can, usually when my son is asleep.
Use your time wisely
While it helps to stick to a schedule, it's just so hard to do so when you have a toddler when often-changing schedule. Usually, I can't be glued on my computer screen when my son is awake since he's a fairly active boy and he tends to run around, climb furniture or eat anything. To make use of my time while looking after him, I'd usually do some offline tasks like drafting an article for my blog (like this article) using the good old pen and paper since I can take them with me when following him around. Sure I can use my mobile but I don't want my son to see me often glued to my gadgets.
Network with people with the same interest as you
Some time in your career as a WAHM, you may need help or advice regarding your work so it is best to build rapport with the right people. Glitches in software, problem with your device or issues in payment method are just some of the challenges you may encounter along the way. It would save you a day of headache and stress if there are people who can help you sort out your problem in a timely manner. Additionally, some of these people may even help you find a job online or refer you to their client who is looking for a new freelancer.
Accept help
When family and friends ask to "borrow" the kids or they will come over to play with them, you may want to take that offer. Just make sure that they can be trusted with your treasure - your child.
Have some time off for yourself
Working from home may be less stressful compared to an office setting since you never have to deal with traffic or compete with co-workers but it can be physically tiring too and may cause burnout as well. It helps to take a break even just once a month. If possible, go out without the kids, eat at your favorite restaurants or do whatever activity you miss doing. Doing so is really refreshing, I tell you... and it seems to refuel you for another month of hustle and bustle.
Now ready to start your career as a work at home mama? Hopefully you find this article helpful. You may also want to read my post about the things you should know about being a WAHM.
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