The distractions when working from home as a dad?
Working from home as a dad to two can be extremely difficult. Between trying to work, getting important tasks completed. There are truly so many distractions; whether it’s my partner that is needing help with the children, wanting me to do more with the family.
Maybe the two little ones craving their dads’ attention whilst he is busy. Even the music or the TV on in the background can drive you insane, whilst you’re trying to edit the new layout for a website. Even when you’re trying to plan, your social media posts. You try and ignore the noises, but they just seem to get louder inside.
Sometimes I admit, I give in and help out. Even though it affects my workflow and the amount that I get done. However, I have explained to my partner that my self-employment should be treated as an actual job. As if I was not around.
The best way through this and most issues is of course communication, but it honestly isn’t enough.
Creating a home workspace
If you are like me and have a family around you, I recommend creating a workspace suitable in your house. It has to be a room that is not used much so that you can be efficient, and get the work done. This shouldn’t be your bedroom as it can make it hard for you to switch off, and go to sleep at night. I use my loft, and I know that probably sounds quite funny but when we moved in, the only spare space was up in the loft. It did not have any flooring so I had to put that in, and I also built shelving and put my desk and chair up there.
When creating your own workspace, your chair should be comfortable. After all you are going to be spending a lot of time on it, and to sit for 7 hours on an uncomfortable chair, it will make you rethink your career choices. Opt for a comfortable ergonomic office chair that supports your back and neck.
The desk that you choose is another important factor, it should big enough to store all of your essentials, but small enough to not take up too much space. One of the most important things is that it lasts. The last thing you want to be doing between work tasks is looking for another desk because the cheap chipboard one failed. Search for a solid wood desk and with good care, it could last forever.
Our loft space wasn’t completely effective, for example it was extremely cold in the winter, and in the summer it was too hot. It isn’t ideal but as a small business owner, and as a dad, It will have to do for now. Running two businesses is difficult, but as a dad that works from home, it’s even more complicated. Not only do I have loads to do in terms of work, but actually shutting off from work, and being a member of my family is hard too.
Routine whilst working from home
The last piece of advice is the most important, it is routine. If you can, you should try and stick to a work time rota schedule. For example from, 6 am to 12 pm or a more common schedule of 9 am to 5 pm. This will ensure you cannot be available for anything other than your job in this timeframe. However, regular breaks can actually boost productivity, as well as at least 1 day off a week, I like Sunday the best! Sticking to this routine is an important factor in your success. If you are to maintain happiness at work, productivity, and happiness with your family.
If you haven’t yet started working from home as a dad but want to, you should research how to start your own business. It features tons of helpful information, that I have learned on my journey. It also gives you a step by step guide to making your own company, from doing research to your tax return.