life tips: working at home

as I was contemplating what to write about today, I came across this article-- which I realize doesn't really have anything to do with furniture, interior design, or deals-----

but I know there are a lot of work-from-home mommies these days + as nice & convenient it is to be able to be home with our precious little, there are definitely times when we feel like we can't get  a n y t h i n g  done, both home + work  stuff. 

the article is named "7 tips for work-at-home moms", she has been a work-at-home mom for 20 years and has a lot of good advice that I think many of us can benefit from.

here are her tips in a nutshell, but if you want to read the full article click here

1. create a schedule

set aside specific time slots for business instead of only working when you feel inspired or have enough energy. even if you can only devote 1 hour a day to your business, it's important to know when the hour is and what you intend to do. you can accomplish a great deal in 60 minuted of focused work. with only 5 or 10 minutes here and there you're likely to get stuck in a rut.

2. establish boundaries and eliminate distractions

where most of us struggle. when you set boundaries like designated work space and specific office hours, it gives you the freedom to concentrate fully on the task at hand—whether at work or play. you have to honor those boundaries by not taking personal calls or answering personal emails while you are working, and by putting your phone out of reach when it’s time to be with your children. your family will appreciate the boundaries. they’ll learn to recognize when mom is working and when she is available rather than constantly having to compete for her attention. 

3. reliable childcare

if you can't get what you need done during nap time or when the kids are at school, you need to find a reliable and consistent form of childcare-- even if it means swapping playdates with a friend.

4. let go of something

chances are you were busy before you started a business or working for someone else from home. when you add a new responsibility, let go of something else. you need to cut back and prioritize on activities/obligations that no longer seem fit so you can be a good steward of your time. learn to say no with clarity and without guilt to things you just don't have time to fit in.

5. don't compromise sleep

a cranky mom is no good to anyone. if your're staying up all night every night because that's the only time you can work without kids-- stop now. the lack of sleep will catch up with you + you'll be sick and unhappy.

6. hold a weekly planning meeting

take 30 mins at the beginning of each week to prioritize for the week. this isn't a to do list, this is a chance for you to focus your goals for your business, family and even yourself. 

7. get out of the house

this can be hard with multiple kids or small newborns-- so make attending local networking meetings, conferences, or events a part of your regular schedule. here you will meet colleagues, clients, mentors, and friends for support. fresh air and change of scenery will be good for you!