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Do you work from home with kids around? Here’s how you can be a positive role model for them, especially young girls.
One of the benefits of being a work at home mom is that you get to show your kids what they can achieve. It’s a chance to be a positive role model for them, especially if you have young girls. You can show them that they can have a career and be a mom at the same time.
It’s important to get the balance right when you do work from home. This is the only way you get to be that positive role model you aim to be. Here’s what you need to do.
Have that work-life balance when you work from home
It’s important to have a work-life balance*. This isn’t just for your sake, but to also be a positive role model for your children. They’re looking at you to see that it is possible to have it all. And they need to see that you do set time aside for them, for yourself, and for your family as a whole.
This can be difficult, especially when you’re starting up a new business. The trick is to work when they’re sleeping. Yes, it means less sleep for you, but you spend quality time with them during the hours that count.
If you are struggling to get a work-life balance, admit that to them. You show them that you can make mistakes, and you can then take steps to rectify your mistakes.
There are times of the year when my work takes over my life. There are other times when my life takes over work. That’s okay on a temporary basis. I let my kids know, and they see that there is a deadline to when work takes over (due to things out of my control). Keep your kids up to date with your schedule so they know when they get your full attention.
Remember that they’re learning from you. When you show them that sometimes work comes first, but other times they come first, they see that balance.
MORE: 5 tips to create a work at home mom routine
Stick to things you say you will do
Did you agree to take on another project at work? Maybe you have some interviews that you need to do. Your children will look at what you’re doing at work. They get to see it all when you work from home. This is great for being a role model.
When you say that you will do something, do it. Let your children see that you take your projects seriously. Let them see that when you have planned and that you stick to it.
This includes whatever you plan to do with them, as well. You want to show that you stick to family plans. If you’re going to take them to the movies, take them. If you’re planning* on doing a board game night, have fun with that.
Your children need to see that commitments are important. They’re going to follow your lead.
Show that you’re open to learning when you work from home
Your children may get a chance to see you in your work zone. This isn’t always going to be positive. There are times when you’ll have meetings with your boss, or they may see you interact with other clients. Even if they don’t see you in meetings, they are likely to see how to react after calls.
You want to show that you are open to learning. We are all human, and we all make mistakes. We’re not perfect at our jobs right away. So, take the time to show what it means to work hard and grow in your position.
Even when people don’t treat you the right way, you need to show what you should do. This doesn’t always mean being nice. Your children need to see you stand up for yourself, and they need to see how you report bad behavior within the company.
The same applies at home. You’re not going to be perfect. When you do make a mistake with your children, such as forgetting something, be honest about it. Hold yourself accountable, and let your children see how they can grow.
MORE: How to make the most of being a work at home mom
How will you be a good role model when you work from home? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
