The Home Office Sanctuary

Oct 20 , 2024
By Kidist Yidnekachew

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Working from home blurs the lines between professional and personal life. It has only been a week since I transitioned into this routine, and already, the boundaries have become hazy. Each morning begins with the sun filtering through the blinds, gently nudging me awake—an unfamiliar routine brought on by my son’s school schedule.

I have come to cherish these early mornings. Our quiet walks to school, sometimes joined by his little sister, are moments I treasure. The light chatter, his silly jokes, and my attempts to instil a bit of bravery in him remind me that these small, seemingly mundane moments are what make life worthwhile.

Then, the rest of the day starts. It is a beautiful chaos—a mix of laughter, cries, and tiny hands reaching for mine. While I cherish the freedom to be present for my daughter’s imaginative stories under the morning sun or to witness my son’s victories and struggles, it is not without its challenges.

My children, understandably, do not grasp the concept of “work time.” They are little forces of nature, full of energy, demanding my attention in the middle of meetings or phone calls. I juggle my job’s demands alongside their needs, trying to maintain a balance that feels elusive. This new role consumes my attention, usually spilling over into evenings and weekends. Looking up resources for the next day invades my nights, and my phone becomes both a tool and a tether.

It is a strange paradox—being physically present yet mentally elsewhere, caught in the cycle of balancing work and family. There is guilt, too, when I resort to handing my phone to my children for a moment of peace or when I feel I am not doing enough as a mother. But, I remind myself that this is a process, one of learning and adaptation.

Working from home as a mother of two is a constant evolution, a blend of joy and chaos, exhaustion and fulfilment. It is difficult, yes, but it is also a privilege, allowing me to be part of the beautiful, messy family life. There are simple joys—the freedom to wear comfy sweatshirts, for instance. I may rely on caffeine and snacks more than I would otherwise, but the occasional afternoon nap while the children sleep makes it worth it.

For mothers like me, the opportunity to work from home once seemed like a dream come true, promising flexibility and more time with their children. However, the reality of balancing work, childcare, and household responsibilities can be overwhelming. Flexibility is the draw—it allows mothers to tailor their schedules around school drop-offs, pick-ups, and other activities. This autonomy lets us be more present in our children’s lives and take part in important moments. Working during naptime or after bedtime offers a sense of control.

But, flexibility can be a double-edged sword. The constant presence of children makes it difficult to establish clear boundaries, leading to distractions and interruptions. Feelings of guilt and inadequacy can arise when mothers struggle to meet the demands of both work and family.

Working from home does offer other advantages. It provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment, allowing mothers to maintain their careers while raising their children. The comfort of working at one’s own pace in a familiar environment can also enhance productivity and reduce stress.

But success hinges on having a support system. A supportive partner who shares in childcare duties is crucial. Assistance from grandparents, friends, or a reliable babysitter is invaluable. Without such support, the workload can become overwhelming, leading to burnout and resentment.

While having a parent nearby can be comforting for children, it may also blur the structure between work and play. Establishing clear routines and designated workspaces can help children understand these boundaries.

The downsides of working from home are notable. The lack of separation between work and home can lead to isolation and loneliness. The constant demands of childcare are draining, and without a dedicated workspace, focusing becomes more difficult.

Navigating these challenges requires strategic planning. Setting clear boundaries, creating a dedicated workspace, and prioritising self-care is crucial. Open communication with employers and seeking support from family and friends can make a substantial difference.

As remote work becomes more common in the future, the flexibility it offers will continue to present both opportunities and challenges. Embracing the benefits while managing the drawbacks, can help mothers find a more manageable work-life balance.

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PUBLISHED ON Oct 20,2024 [ VOL 25 , NO 1277]

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