Never has the phrase “Mom So Hard” become so evident. This is true whether you’re a SAHM, a WFHM, or a mom who previously worked at an office but is now working from home. Nothing about this time is easy for anyone. Who knew 2020 would become the year of SAHF? (Stay At Home Families).
The old weekday schedules no longer apply. The children are supposed to participate in distance education. Zooming kids off to school now means sitting at home and joining Zoom class calls. Parents are now required to work from home as well. The glue that can hold it all in place may just be a routine. Here are ways to stay motivated and productive for school, or work, during this unprecedented time.
Wake up and set “work” hours
Monday through Friday still exists, so plan your sleeping late days on the weekends, just as before. Get enough sleep to stay alert. Set your day in blocks. The times you must work and the times the children must do school work.
Commute
You don’t need to jump in your car but you can take a walk. Start the day with a walk around your block before the workday begins. End the day with another walk before you enjoy that glass of wine. This keeps your head clear on when to start and begin the day.
Wear “real” clothes
Sure, pj’s technically clothes, but are they going to keep you focused? You probably wouldn’t work out in pajamas, so why would they be ok for “work”? Getting dressed helps keep you in the right frame of mind, and keeps a normal routine. I make sure my girls are showered and dressed before their online classes begin at 9:00am. Leggings are acceptable 🙂
Create your workspace
Just as you wouldn’t allow chaos in your normal desk life, don’t allow it at home. Set up your work table or desk. Clear away kids’ toys or distractions they may have. If kids can’t have electronics for video games at school then why should they have them at home?
Take Breaks
The days can be long, and feel like we are in the movie “Groundhog Day”. So be gentle with yourself and your family. Take breaks alone, read a book, call a friend, or complete a chore. Perfect time to send kids outside on bikes, draw or just play. Have snacks or lunch together, check in on the family, see how everyone is feeling. Hugs and carry on.
A study from the Happiness Lab at Yale University stated “routines can help us feel less anxious.” This is incredibly important for adults and kids. This can help reduce the feeling of uncertainty. Even if you only plan breakfast and walks, that’s fine.
Let’s all remember to count our blessings and feel grateful no matter what our crazy day may look like.
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