One question that I get all the time is how do I manage to afford to stay at home and homeschool my children. Most families have at least one parent earning a full-time income to pay the bills. As a single mom I’m the only one in my home working to keep food on the table, a roof over our heads and books on our shelves. Over the years I have learned the importance of balancing my time and efforts as both a homeschool mom and a work at home mom.
1. Take Care of Yourself
I’m putting this first because it’s something that every mom struggles with. We have to take care of ourselves. If you are working from home do not run yourself into the ground. You still have a family that needs to and there’s no way that you are going to earn money if you have a nervous breakdown because you are burning the candle at both ends.
I take 30 minutes everyday just for myself. Sometimes I read a book, listen to a podcast and sometimes I go in the bathroom and enjoy the silence. Making sure that you carve out time for yourself everyday will ensure that you don’t burnout so quickly so that you can manage all the different hats you wear.
2. Set Priorities and Stick to Them
Decided what is important to you and keep it first. Yes you need to work but you don’t have to work around the clock. If your family is a priority then set aside time that is just for them. Put your phone and computer away and be there with your family.
I have a schedule/routine that I follow so my kids know when mommy is in work mode. We start the day with homeschool lessons and then my boys have free time for a while so that I can work. Once my work time is up I put everything away and we do something fun together for the rest of the day. Once my boys have gone to bed I usually get a little more work done.
3. Ask for Help
This is the one that I struggle with the most. Knowing when to ask for help is so important! As a mom and homeschooler you already have a full plate, adding on work just might be too much. Only you know what kind of help you need so don’t be afraid to ask!
When I have a big work project or all just need some time to get my house in order, it’s great to a friend or grandma that can take the boys to play for a few hours so I can get stuff done. Maybe you can set up regular playdates or get a mother’s helper to free up some of your time. Whatever you need find a way to get some help.
When you are able to take care of yourself and stick to your priorities I bet you’ll find that you are able to be more efficient while you work. Then you can have some time for just enjoying your family.
Priorities really is a huge one when it comes to working from home. You have to be able to separate work from the rest of the time or you’ll just drive yourself crazy in the end. Also, that gives a better chance for your family to enjoy spending time with you when you’re not at the computer.