Just a couple of weeks ago, my partner’s workplace instituted a work-from-home policy for all employees, unless otherwise instructed by their supervisors. Initially, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. By keeping my partner at home, we could further minimize our exposure to COVID-19 and practice social distancing effectively.
However, the novelty of both of us working remotely while managing the homeschooling of our three kids faded quickly. Our home, which seemed spacious enough for everyday activities, started to feel claustrophobic under the restrictions of our state’s shelter-in-place order. Juggling emails from teachers, navigating a new routine for the kids, and maintaining my own job felt overwhelming. Working from home is usually my comfort zone, but suddenly I found myself with three new “coworkers.”
While togetherness is often seen as a blessing, this time of isolation can disrupt productivity, especially when remote work is involved. The chaos that ensues from multiple people working from home, alongside the task of keeping kids entertained, can lead to a quick spiral into frustration. It quickly became evident that without some boundaries in place, neither my partner nor I would achieve anything. On the very first day, our children interrupted their other parent 150 times for everything from questions about schoolwork to requests for snacks. Having a parent at home full-time is exciting for kids, but it can also be a major distraction.
I found myself constantly trying to keep the kids away from their dad while also managing meals and keeping them quiet during his work calls—an exhausting challenge. It was clear that we had to establish some ground rules and expectations right away, as neither of us wanted to jeopardize our jobs.
Create a Dedicated Workspace
Let’s face it: most of us aren’t living in sprawling mansions with fancy home offices. My partner cleverly converted our bedroom closet into a workspace. Yes, a closet! With a window, a card table, and a folding chair, it’s surprisingly effective and is the farthest spot from the chaos of the living room. I’ve set up my workspace in the living room, and we’ve taught our kids that if the door is closed, they should not disturb their dad.
Set Work Hours
Currently, my partner works from around 7 AM to 5 PM, while my schedule is more flexible. I manage the kids’ daily activities, including school assignments, chores, and meals. Once late afternoon arrives, the kids switch into their evening routines, allowing me some uninterrupted work time. We’ve learned that working simultaneously with four kids in the house just doesn’t work. Finding a schedule that accommodates both of us has significantly boosted our productivity and reduced stress.
Take Breaks
Just like in a traditional office, taking breaks is vital when working from home. Sitting in front of a screen for extended periods can strain both your eyes and your back. Exercise is key not only for physical health but also for mental well-being, especially during these stressful times. Coordinating meal times and snack breaks with your partner can also create opportunities for connection. Setting timers or reminders on your phone can help prevent burnout.
Divide Household Responsibilities
In our home, the division of chores has shifted to adapt to our new work routines. Incorporating household tasks into our breaks has become a part of our daily rhythm. I find housework therapeutic, so I often take short breaks to tackle chores. The kids are also quite capable of helping out—delegating tasks to them can lighten the load and allow us to focus on our jobs more effectively.
Prioritize Self-Care
You know that feeling when you’ve been sick and realize a shower can do wonders? The same principle applies now. Taking care of your personal hygiene can boost productivity. I make it a point to take a shower every evening to help me feel refreshed. While I might not be dressing up, putting on clean pajamas helps me feel a bit more put together. I schedule my self-care into my day, which is essential for maintaining a positive mindset.
The ongoing pandemic is a tough time for everyone, and working from home can be a significant adjustment. If you’re fortunate enough to have the ability to work remotely, it’s important to create a plan that accommodates your entire family. Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs to your loved ones. Your job matters, and when this pandemic eventually subsides, we want to ensure we’re still employed and thriving.
For more tips on navigating this challenging time, check out this other blog post. If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, Make A Mom is a great resource. Additionally, Drugs.com provides excellent support for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Navigating the challenges of working from home during the pandemic requires establishing a structured environment that works for the entire family. By creating a dedicated workspace, setting clear work hours, taking regular breaks, dividing household chores, and prioritizing self-care, you can maintain productivity while managing the chaos at home.
Leave a Reply