The home is the new office for a number of people around the world. COVID-19 has caused a plethora of businesses to move their workforce to remote work. There are even large companies that have announced that all of their employees will work remotely permanently. For those entrepreneurs that have run a home-based business for years, it can be tough with children in the home. Children mean well but can be a distraction while you are handling an important task that requires full concentration. There are tasks in everyone’s job that can be done without full attention where you can interact with your family while working. The following are tips to run a home-based business efficiently when you have children.
You Need a Home Office
A home office is essential for any person running a home-based business. This is especially true if you have children as they are going to want to interact with you. Your significant other can help with this as working in the living room or kitchen is a recipe for disaster. There are a number of options for a home office including purchasing a large shed to work in. All you have to do is make sure there is internet and electricity to make it a functional office. These luxury sheds can be quite affordable so look into this if you simply do not have a bedroom to turn into an office.
Consider Infant Child Care
Infant child care could be your best option when you have a young child. These children need constant supervision which is nearly impossible when you are working. The interaction from top care providers will focus on the development of your child. Research the top providers in your area and visit before making any type of commitment.
Set Working Hours and Stick to Them
Setting working hours per day is important as waking up late then working well into the night isn’t an option with children. You need to spend quality time with them where you are fully present. You might think interacting with them while working is enough but it truly is not. Waking up early before the children wake up can be time that you do not miss with them later in the day. You do not want to be remembered as the parent that is constantly working instead of playing or having fun with the kids.
Be Realistic About Your Daily Workload
You do not want to work every waking hour by overestimating your ability to get work done. You should start timing yourself on certain daily tasks to see how much you can get done. Setting realistic goals allows you to stay positive and will allow for a decent work-life balance. Time tracking software can allow you to do this accurately and can be a good way to invoice clients. Holding yourself accountable is important when working from home as it can be difficult to maintain motivation.
As you can see, you can be productive even with children in the home. Take time to consider your options as this is going to directly impact your work-life balance and time with your family.