Working From Home with Your Children

For those of us who did not experience the aftermath of the Sept 11th terrorist attacks, this new COVID19 pandemic has certainly thrown a wrench into our normal routines and schedules. In fact, it’s what news outlets are referring to as our “new normal”, at least until things settle down again. Thing is, while I cannot predict the long-term impact of the pandemic on our society, I think it’s safe to say that the immediate impact of this virus will certainly be with us for a while.

But WAIT! Before you go, “ugh, not another doomsday forecast”, my vision for post-COVID19 normalcy is not of doom and gloom. Instead, when I think about the long-term impact of this pandemic, I am actually hopeful for the changes that this pandemic will bring to our routines, habits, and mindset. There is so much to be thankful for during this time of chaos that we don’t even have to try hard to find things to write about in our Gratitude Journal.

For example, how many times have you wished that you could call in sick or stay at home with the kids because you haven’t seen them all week? How many times have you wished for better work-life balance but not sure where to start because there are just too many deadlines at the office and you can’t drop them now?

Well, guess what, my fearless, high-achieving career moms? I have EXCITING news for you…did you know that you’re an AMAZING manifester???

The Universe has heard you and you, my friend, have manifested your desires into reality! How? Well, let’s take a moment and see this situation from a different angle…at this exact point in time, while you are working from home, you have time to:

• Give them that morning hug AND that good night kiss;
• Make sure they eat a healthy and nutritious lunch instead of wondering what the school is serving for lunch;
• Help them with their schoolwork; and
• Be there to give them hugs when they get hurt during the “school” day.

Remember all of the days when you left the house crying because of “mom guilt”? Well, no more mom guilt in your near future! This is the time to savor each and every moment that you have with your kids as they grow up right in front of your eyes! This is the time to enjoy each minute that you get to hold them in your lap, as you try to type out an email, and this is the time to savor playtime together as you spend time outdoors.

Simply put, this is the time to be present for you and your children! They are beyond ecstatic that you are by their side through these stressful times. They are comforted and relieved to have you with them while they try to make sense of everything that is happening around them, as well. Take this opportunity to speak to them about their feelings, and help them understand that there is nothing to fear and that they will be back to school soon to see their beloved friends and teachers. Remember, children are resilient, and even though they don’t show it on the outside, they are still feeling and picking up on your fears and the fears of those around them.

For those of you who are having a difficult time balancing work while your kids are home, think of your kids as your coworkers – sometimes, they’re independent and other times, they will need a little attention here and there but at the end of the day, you’re all working towards a common goal. Be diligent about your schedule, and theirs; but most of all, be gentle on yourself and your kids. It’s okay that you’re not perfect, and it’s definitely okay that they’re not either…it’s a continuous process of improvement.

Also, at least 75% of the corporate workforce is working with their kids too, so don’t worry when the dog barks or the kids scream…just laugh it off and move on! Just remember, things will get easier as you get into a new rhythm