Eight self-care tips for mums working from home

As a working mum, having a work-life balance can seem like a pipe dream. Add to that the fact that we’re working from home at the moment, you might find yourself on the brink of losing it.

Between the demands of work deadlines, ensuring your home is clean and meals prepared on time and of course, spending time with your kids and husband, it might seem impossible to find time for self-care. 

The tips below will help you get your work done on time and spend enough time with your family without sacrificing one or the other.

1. Create a schedule

A schedule will help ensure that you have set aside time for everything you need to do on any given day. Start by making a to-do list and include even those tasks that you think are mundane such as taking a shower, meditating, going for a walk, having your meals, spending time with the kids, kids’ nap times, etc.

You can go as far as to colour code tasks for instance, one colour for work-related tasks, one for those related to the kids and a different one for those that are exclusively yours.

2. Exercise

Exercise not only improves your mood but it boosts creativity and keeps you healthy. You can choose to wake up half an hour earlier so you can get a workout in before the busyness of the day. There are many exercises you can do at home. Alternatively, if your kids are old enough, go for a walk with them killing two birds with one stone: exercising and spending time with your kids. 

3. Eat healthy

Start by having all three meals each day. And then, ensure that they include all the food groups. If you need a snack, choose healthier options such as nuts, fruit or yoghurt.

Avoid binge eating junk food as this slows down digestion making your body and mind sluggish.

Drink plenty of water instead of sugary drinks. If you are a troubled sleeper, avoid caffeine in the afternoon and instead look for other ways to fight the afternoon slump. 

4. Revisit your hobbies

Many of us have things we like to do for fun, things that help us relax. Whether it is sewing, writing, cooking, painting or drawing, make time for these in your day, where possible, or in the course of the week. Hobbies are a great way to get your creative juices flowing. 

If you’ve always been interested in increasing your knowledge of certain topics or acquire new skills, set aside some time in your busy schedule to learn.

5. Have quiet time

Teach your child to sit quietly for 30 minutes either playing or reading. This will allow you some time to take a breather journal, meditate, do your nails, scroll through social media, and even get underway with your hobbies. 

6. Create a peaceful environment

Ensure your home is inviting and where possible, have a separate home office so that you can use the rest of your home to relax. 

Your home decor should make you want to spend time in those rooms. Also, keep your surroundings clean and as tidy as possible will help in creating an inviting environment.

7. Have adult time

The demands of motherhood can make you feel like you don’t have a social life. Set aside time to talk to your friends either via video call as you cook or messages which you can reply at your convenience. 

Schedule time to spend with your partner. Date nights are essential even for couples who have been together for a while. 

8. Get enough sleep

No matter how much you feel you need to get done in one day, ensure that you get enough sleep. If you find yourself staying up late to catch up on chores, consider spreading them out throughout the week instead of trying to do it all in one day. Sleep is essential for good physical and mental health and can help in keeping your weight in check. 

Even as you go out of your way to ensure that your family is well taken care of and that your work gets done in time, remember that if you don’t look after yourself, you will not be able to give your best to others.