Work Life Balance // What I've Learned About Work From Home #WFH

When I returned to work after an extended maternity leave, I found myself in a rigid, ‘always on’ role that left little room for any work-life balance.  

It didn’t take long for me to realise it wasn’t sustainable, and I was fortunate enough to be able to change roles to my current position a couple of years ago.  This role has a much more flexible setup, and we work from home at least 2 days per week which has been a revelation - both in ways I expected and in ways I never imagined.

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

1. You actually end up working longer hours

Without the clear timelines of in-office life, the workday somehow stretches on and on. One minute you’re finishing your first coffee, the next it’s dinner time and your laptop is still open!

2. The school run is my favourite commute of the week

I can pop out now and collect my son, it’s only a very short walk but it’s my favourite part of the WFH day.  It makes me feel more present as a mum and lets me believe I really can do it all!

3. Nobody knows you’re wearing PJ bottoms!

Business on the top, pj party on the bottom.  As long as you don’t stand up, nobody knows you still have your PJs on!

4. GoogleMeet / Zoom / Teams Freedom

I can take a meeting from my home office, kitchen,  sofa, in the garden or, as I quite often do, from the hairdressers — and it’s great!

5. Productivity looks different at home 

Some days I’m ticking off my to-do list like a machine, other days, I’m answering emails with one hand and helping build lego towns with the other, but as long as everything gets done, that’s ok too

For all the pros and the very few cons, my flexible, WFH role has made me a better worker, and a better mum.  Being able to balance both work and family life is empowering and the trust and freedom my at-home days give me have made me more productive and, more importantly, more fulfilled.