How Work-At-Home Moms Can Reduce 'Mom Guilt’

As a work-at-home mom, you've probably experienced ‘mom guilt' at some point. While the fact remains that you need to support your family and provide for their needs, there are times, however, when work can seem to get in the way of being a parent. The guilt you feel in those moments can shake your resolve and make you rethink your career path. What's heartening, however, is that you can maintain a fine balance between your professional and family commitments by following certain tips, when things get difficult.

Maintain A Positive Family/Work Balance

The best way to eliminate working ‘mom guilt' is to maintain a positive family work/balance. A majority of households now rely on two incomes to make things work. When the opportunity to work from home arises, it gives you a chance to be accessible to your family when they need you. Therefore, it's imperative that you talk to your family first and explain just what being able to work from home means for everyone. Your family also needs to realize that your job will require several hours of your time a day without distractions. You need to set firm ground rules, such as:

• Respect your work time
• Minimize distractions
• Delegate chores and have the family work as a team when it comes to housework
• Be courteous (knock before entering your office)
• While these may seem like small things, they will help keep your work life separate from your family life.

Make Time For Yourself

When your office is in your home, you are constantly accessible to both, leaving very little time only for yourself. A situation like this calls for deft time management. Take an hour a day and go for a walk or drive to the coffee shop. When you take a day off, make sure you have a few minutes to yourself. People who work outside the home get a few minutes of freedom during their commute to and from work. When you work at home you don't have that luxury. Take the time to brush off the frustration and re-energize yourself. Your mind will be clearer and you will be able to embrace your family without feelings of guilt or regret.

Remember the Benefits of Your Job

Your job allows you the freedom to be at home. Working from homes offers the comfort of being near family if an emergency occurs and it allows you the benefit of being your own boss. You can set your own hours and take the jobs that are important to you. Look at what you have and remember what it was like when you were forced to work outside the home. A work from home job also allows you the opportunity to be there for the important things, especially when you don't want to miss out on your family's triumphs. So, enjoy your job, embrace your family, and live life to the fullest! Also Read, Working from Home: 6 Tips to Overcome the Challenges.