How I Make WAH Work For Me

A little while back, I shared a few things I felt were helpful when talking about being a WAHM (work at home mom). Today, I'm back with a bit more to say on the subject; more specifcially, I'm here to talk a bit about how I, an ordinary, everyday, run-of-the-mill mom, goes about making WAH work for me.

Finding Time to Work

With twin girls who are entering kindergarten in the fall, I find myself fairly busy much of the time. Chores like laundry, dishes and chasing the dust bunnies and dog-hair tumbleweeds are always waiting to be done, and the kiddos are always ready to add me into the mix as their third playmate. You probably don't need me to tell you how busy life can get. Adding the WAH aspect to the work that is parenthood and life can be a bit challenging.

In my case, I primarily find myself working after the sun goes down and/or before it rises. In other words, I usually find myself tapping away at the keys while the rugrats are snoozing. My bit of advice here? If you are making a go of WAH, identify the time that'd best work for you to do, well, work. Jobs outside the home usually have set hours; take this princpal and apply it to your in-home job.

But Be Flexible

Because that's part of the attraction of becoming a WAHM, right? The flexibility? Setting my own hours while being able to stay home with my kids and pull in extra income are the main reasons I started getting into my WAH freelance writing. So while it's good to identify what hours work for your at-home job, don't get too wrapped up in setting a rigid, unbendable schedule.

Factoring In the Junior(s)

Being a WAHM means what it says: you're working at home. If you have kids, that means anytime they are out of school and other activites, they are right there at home with you. While you're trying to work. I'd be lying if I said it doesn't make for some hectic days at times.

To make it work for me (and possibly to help make it work for you), I make sure I set aside time to devote to my home and family that doesn't criss-cross or overlap my time at the keyboard. I've found my kids are much more willing and happy to entertain themselves for a good chunk of time if I take some quality time to sit and play/read/interact with them. Make sure their needs are met to the best of your abilities might just give you some more time to devote to the needs of your at-home job.

Being a WAHM is a real possibility for us moms who want to bring in income and remain in the home with our kids. With a little practice and finesse, you can definitely make it work for you.

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