When people think about working from home, they imagine freedom, flexibility, and maybe even a little bit of luxury. For moms, however, working from home often looks like a marathon of multitasking. It means taking calls while a baby cries, managing endless snack demands, and squeezing in work between meal prep, cleaning, and never-ending interruptions. It’s chaotic, messy, and exhausting, and yet, to the outside world, it might look like a dream.
As a mom of three who’s balanced an IT career and health coaching, all while managing a household, I know that work-life balance at home is a constant challenge. But it’s not impossible. With the right strategies, you can take control of your time, prioritize what matters, and find ways to thrive in the chaos.
This guide isn’t about perfection. It’s about survival, small wins, and making the most of a tough situation. Let’s dive into a realistic, actionable plan for moms working from home.
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Why a Work-from-Home Routine is Essential for Moms
The evolution of work-life balance has seen companies redefining how employees can achieve harmony. Gone are the days of superficial perks; today’s successful working moms demand real solutions that empower them to work smarter, not harder.
Want to know how companies are redefining work-life balance? Check out Beyond Perks: How Top Companies Redefine Work-Life Balance.
For moms with multiple roles, a clear routine is the foundation for success.
- Prioritize self-care and personal growth: Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Incorporating even small moments of self-care helps you stay resilient and focused.
- Create boundaries between work and personal life: Establishing clear work hours and designated spaces for work can prevent burnout and help you stay present for both work and family.
- Maximize productivity during work hours: Structure your workday with focused blocks of time and realistic goals to make the most of your energy and attention.
The Reality of Working From Home as a Mom
For moms, working from home is often harder than being in the office. Here’s why:
- No boundaries: Your office is also the playroom, kitchen, and laundry station.
- Constant interruptions: You’re expected to be an employee, mom, and homemaker all at once.
- The invisible load: Keeping track of work, kids’ schedules, meals, and household tasks feels overwhelming.
- Guilt: Whether it’s about not being fully present at work or with your kids, guilt is a constant companion.
These challenges can also lead to parental burnout—a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion from prolonged stress.
Burnout is real—but you don’t have to face it alone!
As a health coach and a parent, I know firsthand how overwhelming life can feel. Through my work with clients and my own experience, I’ve recognized the subtle signs of burnout and developed practical strategies to combat it. From nourishing meals to holistic wellness practices, I’m here to guide you toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Take the next step in beating burnout with these related reads:
Holistic Health Strategies to Prevent Burnout
Discover proven wellness strategies to help you overcome burnout and regain balance.
Meal Ideas and Recipes to Combat Parental Burnout
Fuel your body and fight burnout with simple, nourishing meal ideas for busy parents.
Parental Burnout: What It Is and What You Need to Know
Understand the signs of burnout and actionable steps to reclaim your energy.
Work-Life Balance for Moms: Why Hustle Culture Isn’t Working
Learn why hustle culture doesn’t work for moms and how to redefine success.
For tips on how to master work-from-home balance and tackle these challenges effectively, explore 10 Ways to Master Work-Life Balance While Working from Home.
Acknowledging these struggles is the first step. The goal isn’t to eliminate the chaos but to navigate it more effectively.
The Ultimate Work-from-Home Routine for Moms
A structured routine helps bring order to the chaos, but it has to be adaptable.
Here’s how to organize your day when you’re working from home with kids:
Morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM): Set the Tone
- Quick self-care: Start your day with a glass of water and 5 minutes of light exercise or deep breathing. Even this small act can set a positive tone.
- Simple breakfast: Prepare a nutritious meal that everyone can enjoy. Set up a snack station so kids can grab food later without interrupting you. Need ideas? Check out Quick & Nutritious Breakfast Ideas for Working Moms.
- Plan together: Review the day with your kids. Let them know when you’ll be working and when you’ll spend time with them. This gives them clear expectations.
Work Block 1 (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM): Focused Work
- Prioritize high-effort tasks: Use this time for deep work, like writing or client calls.
- Set up independent play: Create an activity box for kids with puzzles, crafts, or educational games. Rotate activities weekly to keep them fresh.
- Visual boundaries: Use a sign or signal, like headphones, to let kids know you’re unavailable.
Midday Reset (11:30 AM – 1:30 PM): Lunch and Connection
- Take a break: Step away from your desk and protect your vision by doing some of the holistic eye exercises.
- Quick and simple meals: Prep something easy, like sandwiches or leftovers. Involve kids by letting them help set the table or mix ingredients.
- Active break: Take a walk with your kids or let them play outside while you soak up some Vitamin D. For a slower approach, explore the concept of Dolce Far Niente (the sweetness of doing nothing) and recharge. Read more about it in Embrace the Sweetness: 9 Hacks for Dolce Far Niente.
- Get outside: Maintain healthy work-life balance while working from home, and optimize your vitamin D levels, which are essential even in winter!
- Check-in: Ask your kids how their day is going or sit down for 10 minutes of uninterrupted conversation.
Work Block 2 (1:30 PM – 3:30 PM): Lighter Tasks
- Collaborative work: Schedule meetings or less demanding tasks during this time.
- Screen time for kids: Allow supervised screen time for educational programs or a favorite show.
- Flexible options: If your kids are restless, consider setting them up with a supervised craft project nearby.
Afternoon Reset (3:30 PM – 4:00 PM): Tidy and Transition
- Quick clean-up: Spend 15 minutes tidying up the most-used spaces with your kids. Make it fun by turning it into a game.
- Prep for tomorrow: Review your work progress and outline priorities for the next day.
Evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Family Time and Relaxation
- Cook together: Use dinner prep as an opportunity to bond. Assign age-appropriate tasks to your kids, like stirring or setting the table.
- Unwind as a family: Play a board game, watch a movie, or go for an evening walk.
- Personal time: After the kids are in bed, take 15 minutes for yourself—whether it’s journaling, stretching, or enjoying a quiet cup of tea.
If you want an easy way to implement time blocking into your routine, download your FREE Time Blocking Template for Working Moms and take control of your day! Start time blocking today and manage your schedule more quickly and effectively.
Weekend
- Saturday: Use this day for errands, family outings, or personal hobbies.
- Sunday: Reflect on the past week, prepare for the upcoming one, and relax.
Simplify Your Day with Practical Hacks
1. Prep Meals in Advance
Batch cook on weekends to reduce weekday stress. Crockpots and one-pot meals are your best friends.
2. Rotate Activities for Kids
Keep kids engaged by switching up activities. Try puzzles in the morning, crafts in the afternoon, and books before bedtime.
3. Automate and Delegate
Use grocery delivery services or chore-sharing apps to lighten your load. Involve older kids in household tasks.
What About Sick Days or Emergencies?
What if you’re working from home because you or your child is unwell? It’s an all-too-common situation for moms working from home, and it requires careful adjustments to keep things running smoothly. Managing sick days while working from home adds an extra layer of complexity—from rearranging your schedule to ensuring both you and your child get the care you need. Building flexibility into your routine and incorporating moments for self-care can make a world of difference during these challenging times.
What helps:
- Flexible work hours: Talk to your employer about shifting deadlines or working in smaller time blocks.
- Comfort kits for kids: Prepare a box with comfort items like a favorite blanket, books, or quiet toys to keep them occupied.
- Quick self-care: Even 5 minutes of rest or a warm drink can help you recharge.
I have designed the comprehensive guide from my personal experience as a single working mom of three on how to balance work and life and manage sick days with ease.
For more in dept tips for managing sick days check out: Work-Life Balance Hacks for Single Moms: How to Manage Sick Days with Ease.
Let Go of Perfection
Stop aiming for the perfect work-life balance. Focus on what matters most: showing up for your kids, your work, and yourself. It’s okay to leave dishes in the sink or let your kids watch an extra episode of their favorite show if it helps you get through the day.
For busy moms working from home, finding balance can feel challenging but achievable. With a structured routine, intentional planning, and prioritizing self-care, you can maintain a healthy work-life balance while pursuing your professional goals.
Whether you’re a successful working mom or an ambitious businesswoman, this routine will empower you to thrive in every aspect of your life. Start implementing these strategies today and see the difference it makes!
A supportive community can provide the encouragement and resources you need to navigate these days with ease. Whether it’s tips for boosting immunity, balancing work tasks, or finding time to recharge, having access to expert advice and shared experiences is invaluable.
Join our Shine Bright Wellness Library for tips and resources to help you navigate sick days with ease and support your well-being during challenging times.
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