Working from home is becoming more and more popular. A recent survey discovered that more than two-fifths of the working population are either working from home or benefitting from a hybrid work scheme in the UK. Indeed, the UK is one of the most remote-friendly places on the planet, which is arguably great news for the parents amongst us – or is it?
As amazing as the work-from-home life can be, it can also pose some serious difficulties. Whilst it can save you considerable amounts, you may find it harder to concentrate, especially if you have children who demand your attention every 5 minutes.
Sometimes you may even find the office can be a little professional respite from the chaos of home, so how do you keep a cool head with a bustling family home and a mounting digital to-do list?
How Hybrid is Reshaping Family Life
Remote and hybrid working practices are effectively mainstream in the UK, which has become something of a godsend for the average working parent. Reduced expenditure on commutes means more money for the family’s food shop budget and trips. It also allows for flexibility, which was previously unexperienced by working parents, meaning parents can now carry out things such as the school run. Studies show that women in particular favour hybrid work arrangements as they find them the most supportive policy.
Creating a Family-Friendly Workspace
This reshaping is, generally, excellent for career progression and work-life balance. But there are side effects, typically felt by parents of young children or during term holidays. When working from home, especially during school holidays, you are obviously sharing your workspace with the kids, who are probably excellent and distracting you. To combat this issue, try to organise your home so you have a dedicated workspace separate from your home life. Simple things, like keeping a clear desk or shutting a door, can do a lot for your concentration.
Tech That Keeps the Household Running
When working from home, you’ll naturally be relying a lot on your domestic internet connection, as will your children, who are more than likely streaming cartoons or playing video games. All of this can throttle down your own access to the internet, disrupting meetings and the general flow of your day.
If your household is stretching the limits of your internet bandwidth, then you should take the opportunity to explore and compare different broadband and phone deals to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible, with the best connection possible.
Managing Time and Expectations
Time management is important in any work setting, but also at home, as you have to manage your own time as well as your family’s. You could create a shared calendar amongst family members to communicate your professional needs and pre-empt focus time accordingly.
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