For some, working at home is a full time job, which includes weekends. This can be quite challenging to those with young children or a spouse who has worked all week, and wants to engage in recreational or social activities as a family on the weekend. So, what does a work at home mom do? How does she balance work, life and family on the weekends? Here are our suggestions:
1. Rise and grind…earlier! We know that weekends were made for sleeping in, but a work at home mom may need to sacrifice a few Zs in order to get the job done. A few extra hours before everyone wakes up can free you up for fun family time later in the day.
2. Devise a weekend schedule. Unless your work at home job entails predetermined shifts, work out your own schedule that is different than your weekday schedule. If you don’t have to work an 8 hour work day, don’t. Perhaps you can work 2 hours in the morning, before your family arises, and 2 hours in the evening after everyone’s settling down.
3. Take your laptop with you and hit the road. A portable office means that you can work from just about anywhere. As a location independent professional, learn how to work in spurts while away from home and you’ll be surprised at how much you can actually get accomplished while spending time with your family.
During Superbowl 2009, I had a ton of work due the following day, but my husband and I were also invited to a party. Not much of a sports fan, I attended the party, was sociable before the kickoff and, while everyone was shouting at the television, I hammered away at work. I admit to not being much for multi-tasking, so if I can pull this off, anyone can.
4. Don’t be a superwoman. Unless you absolutely must work on the weekend, limit the time that you spend doing so. It’s okay to be passionate about your job or career, but be careful not to burn yourself (and your family) out by doing too much. Set realistic goals for yourself AND set limits…and stick to them!
5. Remember your priorities. Work is important, but so is family. Chances are that you don’t get to spend a whole lot of time together during the week as you all move in different directions. While your work at home job must be treated with respect, your family should always come first. If your telecommuting position is taking up all of your free time…time that should be spent creating memories with your family…it may be time to reprioritize or even explore other work from home opportunities.
Hopefully these tips will help you strike a balance between working from home on the weekends and having a life with family and friends. I know some of you have been at this for a while and can probably share a few additional insightful tips. So, what are some of your best strategies for working at home on the weekend?
