How are you supposed to work when babysitting?
Have you ever noticed how many distractions you have during the day.
The one thing I noticed when I started working from home, is everyone in my home thinks that it is okay to bring all of their problems to me.
As if I am not doing anything. Does this happen to you?
I am talking even the dogs have found ways to distract me.
Just Venting
So, I want to start off by saying I'm not really complaining, I guess I am just venting.
One of the perks of working from home is the fact that I can spend time with my grandson Mason.
It is a perk but sometimes it is a curse. Allow me to set the stage, I'm hoping someone can take something from this.
My grandson is 3 and he lives with me. He has recently taken up residence in my bed at night.
I am ok with this even though I know it is not recommended. In the morning when we get up I make his breakfast and help him get dressed.
My daughter takes him to daycare. That is when my work starts for the day. However,
I only have till 2:00 until I have to pick him up for daycare. Which makes for a short workday.
Again no complaints. I schedule time at night to restart my work around 7:30 when he goes to bed.
Now comes the fun part.
When he goes to bed I try and start writing or spend time catching up on anything that I didn't have time for earlier.
However, he has made a hobby out of making up excuses to call me every 5 minutes until he falls asleep.
Now I am not sure if you have dealt with a three-year-old I will tell you first-hand yelling does no good.
So this is my dilemma. Again not complaining just venting.
The moral of the story.
The moral of the story is distractions will keep you from your work if you let them.
Although my nightly routine can be frustrating at times I do not let it get in my way of success.
Here is my key to achieving my goals even with the distractions.
I set a time schedule every day of things I want to accomplish throughout the day.
If Mason is hard to get to bed at night I will adjust my schedule to accommodate.
Which translates to working later. I make sure to clear my calendar each night so the next day I'm ready to start again.
Final Thoughts
I could easily turn my situation into an excuse.
That being said, I would never accomplish my goals if I make excuses. I chose this situation so I will not let it stand in my way.
Take time for what matters the most, even when it is the most inopportune time. Life is too short not to stop sometimes to smell the coffee.
Don't miss any of it. Adjust your schedule to stay on task. Keep your goals in front of you and never look back.
Thank you for reading Please feel free to comment on your distractions
Recent Comments
17
I've dealt with both small children and elderly adults as I work.
Here is a piece of advice you can use: create templates.
Sounds easy enough but most people just don't ever do it.
Any expert in any field has created templates and used them, it goes with being a professional.
Also, develop a road map (or "content strategy") so that you always know what to expect for some interval of time.
Say you've got a 90 day (3 month) plan.
You've also got a small group of templates developed.
Just arrange the templates such that they correspond to some larger narrative or plan that spans over a 3 month timeframe.
Then you can fill out your template (almost on autopilot) and finish your work in under an hour each day.
Doing things like keyword research and title creation in batches will help with this.
By front-loading your efforts you save on energy exerted in the long run.
Then you have both the time to spend with your little one as well the time required to build your brand and expand your potential customer base.
It isn't easy, but it's entirely doable and also the best way to run an online business with the least amount of stress in the long term.
Hi Chuck, I can definitely relate. I'm currently working from home with a 4 and 8 years old and the distractions are quite constant.
There's always something that requires immediate attention (its life or death)! LOL
Anyhow, it's great you're keeping a positive attitude and adjusting your schedule as needed.
Enjoy every moment because they grow up fast!
-Hon
I don't have young children around but when I go to my daughter's I do understand what you mean. I also understand that people think that since you're retired you have nothing else to do but help them with whatever. When you say you really can't they look at you like you're the most selfish person on earth. "But you're retired, you have tons of time" How often I've heard that. Sometimes I cave but sometimes I just have to stay firm. So, yes I get you! Hang in there. They're only young once.
~Debbi
I know what you mean, Chuck, but I know that sometimes your grandson might also provide sparks of inspiration from time to time as well!
Jeff
You are correct he is my joy. And I cave every time he needs something because I can. Thanks
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A friend of mine has a solution for her children who keep getting out of bed. She read them a story and then puts on some soft calming music (not loud) to help them feel relaxed and comfortable. She tells me it works a treat.
My children are now adults but when they were younger I used to read to them. Have to admit I have never tried the music part.
All the best.