It’s already hard enough to do anything while your toddler is on the loose. Adding your full time job in the mix makes things even more challenging. I went back to work from maternity leave a couple months ago and I have learned a few things along the way that made me productive but allowed me to be able to spend guilt- free time with my work.
During lockdown, I couldn’t send my son, Faris, to daycare or set play dates. I had to take this matters into my own hands.
- Schedule your day
When I am most organized, I am more productive. I know what is coming next. It’s all in my head. My son eats breakfast and takes nap regularly on the daily but something about writing it down makes things official hehe. I suggest writing every small detail…this way in case your day goes south, you can always come back and see what is left and prioritize for the next day.
- Use nap time for meetings or important stuff
I really look forward to this, since my son only takes one nap a day, soo I only have small window to myself. I book my Zoom/phone call meetings during this time. My point is when they’re taking a nap, try to wrap as many emails and meetings as you can so when he’s up, you can manage other things. Baby things!
- Have your secret weapon ready (in desperate moments)
We can NEVER plan for everything!!! I can’t stress this enough. I am not a perfect mom and not I am planning to be one. If at the last minute, my boss wants to speak to me or I have to write important email, I let my son watch TV. Lately, he loves to watch The Wiggles and during this time I can quickly wrap up and not feeling guilty of neglecting him.
- Encourage individual playtime
I learned something from “Inta” the importance of individual playtime for your kids. I always encourage my son to have his alone time, whether in the swing when he was baby or now with his toys. This is time, I gate the play area and let myself either continue work or take a break for myself. Don’t forget, its important take a 15 min breaks and lunch break… just as if you were at work and need to step away from your screen and clear your head.
- Make time for your kids
When you’re not working, spend some one of one time with each kid individually. I only have one, so I try to make sure I give my undivided attention to him, which means no phone, TV or anything that can be distracting. Usually, I take him to the park or on a bike ride. Doing anything out doors helps both of us feel refreshed and calm.
Well, there you have it! I hope some of you found this blog post helpful!
At Home With Mubina 