Thriving as a Work-From-Home Mother: Balancing Career and Family

Jesha M. Alcotibo, a web designer
Jesha Alcotibo
Designer
May 18, 2023
7 min read
Jesha Alcotibo working in her laptop with her baby

Have you seen a parent typing away on a laptop while her baby sleeps on her lap? Life as a working parent is a demanding act that requires juggling between work and life hours together to create a cycle that works for their profession and families. Well I’m one of them! 

I have been employed at Montani International for over two years, and even prior to joining this organization, I consciously made the decision to pursue a career in this particular work environment.

The remote work setup offers an ideal solution for individuals, particularly mothers, who often bear the responsibility of household chores and caregiving. By working remotely, I can effectively balance my work commitments while attending to the needs of my family. This arrangement allows me to be present and actively engaged in both my professional responsibilities and the care of my loved ones.

Being a mother is a rewarding and a fulfilling role, and when combined with the challenges of working from home, it becomes a delicate juggling act. This kind of work setup isn’t for every parent, and not every career can support remote work.

Nevertheless, working remotely has become increasingly popular among parents due to the numerous advantages it offers. Here are some compelling reasons that I’d like to share as a parent embracing remote work:

The Reasons Why Parents Love Working Remotely

  • Spend Time Where It Matters. Spending quality time with my family is most important to me. As a work-from-home mother, I have the flexibility to manage both my career and family responsibilities. I have the opportunity to spend quality time with my children, whether it's taking a break from work to help them in their school activities or having lunch together.

  • Escape Anxiety-Causing Commutes. Working remotely has also reduced the need for costly and time-consuming commutes(Which I really hate because of the traffic!). Perhaps you’re lucky enough to have a short, one-song-on-the-radio commute. You haven't asked. Every time I commute, it can play the whole playlist before I reach my destination. My overall wellbeing has greatly improved when I was finally able to escape the anxiety-causing commutes and the bonus on the sides that I get to have more time to spend with my family, without sacrificing my career goals. 
  • Possibility of Flexible Hours. I am grateful for the flexible work hours that I have been afforded. Experiencing this type of schedule is akin to the delight of savoring a delectable piece of chocolate for the very first time. Once you experience it, you can never forget how amazing it is. Everyone has different times when they are most productive, and being able to work during those hours can make a huge difference in the quality of work produced which contributes to an increased productivity and focus.
  • Save Money on Work Expenses. Remote work can provide significant cost savings compared to traditional office-based work. By eliminating transportation costs, expenses for work attire, and expensive meals, remote workers can save a considerable amount of money. Another way to save money on work expenses while working remotely is to take advantage of free or low-cost online tools and software. Many remote workers use free communication tools like Zoom or Skype to connect with colleagues and clients, reducing the need for expensive travel or in-person meetings. Cloud-based project management tools like Trello or Asana can also be used to keep track of tasks and deadlines, reducing the need for expensive project management software. We get to experience seamless communication and collaboration from the comfort of our own home, providing convenience and substantial savings.
  • Save Money on Childcare Costs. If you have young children, you may need to adjust your schedule to work around another caregiver. Finding a trustworthy nanny can be a dilemma, as it was for me, and I'm sure other mothers face similar challenges, especially considering the age and independence of our children. It's difficult to leave everything in the hands of someone else. All of these anxieties and worries become manageable when you work from home. Being present  to take care of your family makes your bond stronger and on the plus size it can significantly reduce your childcare expenses. 

By minimizing the stress of juggling childcare and work obligations, you can enjoy a more harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle. Embracing remote work can lead to enhanced well-being, increased productivity, and a deeper connection with your loved ones and saving a lot of money on childcare costs.

Transitioning to Being a Work-at-Home Parent

Transitioning to working from home as a parent can be a significant adjustment, but it can also offer a range of benefits when done correctly. By adopting the right strategies and seeking support, you can successfully manage both your work and parenting responsibilities while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Here are some helpful tips that you can apply:

  1. Establish a routine and boundaries that distinguish your work time from your personal time. Communicating with your employer about your needs and constraints can help ensure that you're on the same page. Utilizing technology can also help you stay connected with your colleagues while setting limits on your technology use to prevent burnout.
  2. Set boundaries with your children and communicate your work schedule to minimize interruptions. Explain the importance of your work and the need for uninterrupted focus during specific hours. Encourage them to engage in independent activities or provide them with age-appropriate tasks to keep them occupied while you work. By setting these boundaries and effectively communicating them, you can minimize interruptions and create a conducive work environment at home and lastly,
  3. Seek support from family, friends, or online communities. This can be instrumental in managing the challenges and maintaining a healthy work-life balance while working from home. Reach out to your immediate family members and explain the demands of your remote work setup. Discuss how they can provide support, whether it's through sharing household responsibilities, taking care of certain tasks, or offering assistance with childcare. Having a strong support system within your family can lighten your load and create a more conducive work environment. Remember that making adjustments and finding what works best for you and your family is an ongoing process.

If you have the opportunity to choose your work environment, I believe the ideas I have shared with you can assist you in making an informed decision regarding the benefits of working from home. By considering these advantages, you can make a choice that aligns with your personal and professional goals, fostering a more fulfilling and balanced lifestyle.

A Mother's Perspective on Work-Life Balance and Family Fulfillment

As a mother and a wife, I cannot express enough gratitude for the opportunity to work in a remote setup. It has provided me with a sense of immense appreciation and fulfillment. Being able to fulfill my professional duties while also being present for my family's needs is a true blessing. The flexibility and convenience of remote work have allowed me to strike a harmonious balance between my career and my role as a mother and wife.

In a remote work setup, I have the privilege of being actively involved in my children's lives, witnessing their milestones, and providing them with the love and support they need. I can participate in their activities, help them with their schoolwork, and create cherished memories together. This level of involvement strengthens our bond as a family and creates a nurturing and loving environment that contributes to their overall well-being.

It has given me the chance to excel in my career while prioritizing the well-being and happiness of my family. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity, as it has enriched my life in ways I couldn't have imagined.

Wishing you the best of luck on your work-at-home parenting journey! 

Godbless everyone! 🙏

Thank you for taking the time to read my article. If you are interested in learning more about me we can connect with each other.

If you're curious to know more about Montani International Inc please feel free to explore our various online platforms and be sure to check out some of our informative articles, latest project updates, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of what it's like to work at Montani.