How to be a ‘Work-from-Home Mom’ in a Pandemic

I’m sure most of you will agree that no number of words in any given language can be used to adequately describe a mother's love. Factor in a global pandemic that forced us into a lockdown where both parents and children have to be productive in the same space while bringing that love, patience and sacrifice, and things just got a little trickier.

Being a working mother of school-aged children during this period of work-from-home and online schooling is no easy task. I'm sure if you fall into this category, you’ve had your fair share of overwhelming moments in the past week, let alone, the past year. However, as a lifelong optimist I am a firm believer in silver linings and the fact that as humans, all our experiences can be rewarding ones; depending on how you look at them. So, I've compiled a few tips on how we working moms can get through these times with our sanity intact, and also learn to see the glass half full.

Moms, while our children and spouses may think of us as superheroes, please remember that we are merely human, and humans need adequate rest for their bodies to function optimally. Scheduling a time in each day to disconnect from work, household chores and mom duties is extremely important. ‘Me-time is not just a catchy phrase but a necessity. “Me time”- can be time spent doing yoga, talking a walk in the sunshine, meditating – whatever it may be, it is the equivalent of putting on your own oxygen mask, before doing so for others in your care.

Designate a specific space as your home office. This will allow younger children to know that you are ‘at work’ when sitting by that desk or in that corner of the living room. This space should also be near your children’s work area so they can also be supervised. Also, keep in mind that it’s okay to take breaks from work to attend to your children’s needs.

Finally, remember that you are not alone. While at times it may seem like no one else understands your daily struggles, it can help by talking to others who are in the same boat. Sharing your experiences with other working mothers can help ease your stress and anxiety. Simply calling up a friend to vent or even joining support groups online can help show you that there are other mothers out there who, like you, are all trying to do their best.

And now for the silver lining, despite all the challenges that COVID-19 has brought with it, it also brought many opportunities. Don’t think of a lockdown as being cooped up in a house with noisy toddlers, angsty teens and equally stressed spouses but a chance to spend even more quality time with the ones you love. Think of supervising your child’s online learning as an opportunity to have a more active role in your child’s education. It all depends on how you look at the glass!