As a work-at-home mom, I face different challenges that I didn’t have to deal with at my previous job. Kids, housework and visitors are all part of our day. In the midst of all of this, I also have to fit in time to work. I’m sure if you telecommute or own a home business, you’ve faced some of the same challenges. Today I’m sharing my favorite time management tips that help me work while managing my home (and chaos).
Time Management Tips for Work-at-Home Moms
Create a schedule
I know this is easier said than done, but creating a work schedule has helped me tremendously. I find that it makes it easier for me to get into a “work mode”, and be more productive. I like to wake up a few hours before my family to get the bulk of my writing done. This schedule is perfect for me since I’m able to work with no distractions. I also make time during the evening to wrap up any projects that need completed. Creating time each day for work is crucial if you want to make progress and be productive. Make your work hours non-negotiable, and let your family and friends know that you’re not available during this time.
Get offline
As a blogger, this one is tough for me. My work revolves around social media and the online community. However, in order to get anything done, I have to disconnect while I work. This means no Facebook, Pinterest or any other social media platform I enjoy. Instead, I turn on my favorite radio station and focus on my work. I get a lot more work completed this way, and the quality of my work is greater.
Welcome help
My mom lives within walking distance from our home. Because I know she’s very busy handling church affairs (my dad is a Pastor), I hate asking her for help. However, there are days when her schedule is free and she’ll ask to watch my toddler. I used to feel a bit guilty at first, but now I look forward to having a few days each month to focus on tasks that I don’t typically have time for.
Take a break
If you find that you’re burned out or can’t focus, step away and go do something you enjoy. I find that taking a break reenergizes me and enables me to refocus. It’s great to stick to a work schedule, but if you’re having a mental block, you won’t be making much progress. Go for a walk, call a friend or read a magazine. Working from home is still work, so make time to clear your head and recharge.
Do you work from home? How do you manage your time? I’d love to hear your tips!
I think that disconnecting is a great way to find some balance on a daily basis. I know that this is easier said than done but I try to adhere to it, especially on the weekends.
Going offline is easier said than done especially when you are a blogger because a lot of our work is centered around technology. It is nice to take a digital detox once in a while though!
Getting offline is the one that most certainly works for me. If I’m on social media, I never get anything done. I have to totally disconnect to get my work done.
great tips…. I go completely computer free on sunday so I can actually get things done other than blogging…. Otherwise I become obsessed!
Working at home can be a beast sometimes! Sometimes I wish I got to go to an office, but nothing beats being there for your kiddos every day!
These are great tips! I struggle with unplugging too. I sometimes feel like Dory from Finding Nemo. Ooh look, Facebook!
LOL…you’re not the only one. 🙂
A schedule is so important! And so is remembering to take a break. It’s hard to stop and not do ‘one more thing’ when my office is in my bedroom.
I know it gets really hectic in the blogging world a lot of times. I have to have some help from time to time just to stay on top of everything. Your tips are spot-on!
I’m self-employed and do some contract work. I’ve been working from home – at least a little bit – since I was pregnant with my oldest child. Now that my youngest child is in full-day kindergarten, I’ve gradually transitioned from a mostly stay-at-home mom to a mom who works from home. Many people in my life don’t seem to understand the difference. Friends keep asking me to babysit their children, volunteer at school, and other things they wouldn’t ask of a parent who works 9-5 in an office. It’s true, I do have some flexibility in my schedule and am able to work less in a given week if I want to. But I’m struggling with finding balance in this new season of my life, and those who expect me to be available aren’t making it easier. I’m looking for ways to explain this to others.