Work from home?

Question

Does it ever get easier?
I'm almost done my first week of working from home and to say I'm overwhelmed is an understatement.
I'm trying to give myself grace and remember this is only week one and a lot has changed at my company since I've been on mat leave so I'm learning a whole new role and systems.
I've had multiple breakdowns this week. I just feel like such a bad mom. I feel like I'm neglecting my son when he comes and asks to read when I'm in the middle of sending an email or a meeting. 
I just feel like I haven't been very present with my son and it's making me feel guilty.
Anyone in the same boat? Similar situations?
Just looking for some advice and encouragement 😞

Answer

I’m a work from home mom too. I’ve learned that the best way to survive is to live by a routine that doesn’t change much day to day. We get up at 7am and do breakfast. I set up a play area in my living room that he plays in while I work. I sit near him and take mini breaks to play with him throughout the morning and then we eat lunch around 11:30am and nap from noon to 2. Then he has a snack and more play time. I take my lunch then so that I can give him my full attention for a solid hour. My work day ends at 5, but my the afternoon is light in terms of workload, so I can take some time to play with him more. I also do a music hour from 3 to 4 and we play children’s songs I find on Netflix or YouTube, which seems to be a great activity to keep him engaged and busy 😊. It was super tough at first, but now he loves the routine and really enjoys the day.

Answer

I’m so sorry it’s been such a tough week! I tried working from home by myself with my son a few times, and it is so difficult. He is super high maintenance and I get nothing done. And like you said, I felt so guilty for being there but not “being there.” I don’t really have any great advice but I was watching the news today and they were talking about how the pandemic is hitting women so much harder because more of the childcare responsibilities fall on them. If someone has to take care of the kids while working from home, it’s usually mom. They said something like one in four women is considering leaving the workplace because of the stress associated with literally trying to do it all. So you are not alone!!

Answer

I think it's so normal to feel the way you are feeling. My advice is to be realistic. Decide what isn't realistic for you to be doing and let go of any guilt for not doing that. Also, I've seen so many suggested schedules online for working at home parents with different aged kids in light of coronavirus. Look some of those up! Good luck!

Answer

I worked from home as a teacher from March til June. It was bad, but my son got used to it. I much prefer the attention he gets in daycare vs me trying to work at home. It’s hard, but it’s a way of life now for the foreseeable future 😓 you got this mama!

Work from home?

The Top Baby Tracker App: Embrace New Beginnings with Tender Care

The Top Fertility Tracker App: Your Path to Achieving Pregnancy

The Top Pregnancy App: Nurturing Your Journey to Motherhood

The Top Period Tracker for Empowering Your Menstrual Health Journey