by Reah B. Padla
I am a work-at-home-mom. I lost count how many times I introduced myself as such whenever people ask me what I do. I’ve been married for 13 years and have worked “full-time” while being a wife and a mother of two boys, 11 years old and 9 months old.
Being a work-at-home-mom (WAHM) sounds like a dream and it is, for many. When my former officemates and I would talk about our future, I would say “I want to be a good wife and mom.” My then boyfriend and I would imagine our life, I would tell him “Gusto ko sa bahay aalagaan ko asawa ko at mga anak ko.” That’s what he wanted too; to come home to a house where his family is waiting.
I also had this desire in my heart that I’d emulate my mom who was always there for me growing up. I grew up with a hands-on mom and that experience made me feel whole. I wanted the same.
Work-at-Home Wins
Working from home has many benefits. There is no commute. I only need to turn on my computer to start so I am able to work from anywhere. This flexibility allows me to attend to my son’s needs and I can be the always-present mom I wished I could be. No need to file for a vacation leave! As long as I finish early, I can enjoy my destination!
Work-at-Home Woes
My experience working from home has been helpful this quarantine. I’ve had no problem adjusting but it became more difficult now that I have to attend to my eldest’s school needs. Before the lockdown, I would enjoy being a WAHM by going to different places. Now, this mom has nowhere to go.
With the new baby, things have been hard. Thankfully, God’s grace is sufficient despite all the work-at-home challenges. (“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9)
Win at Home First
Working at home is something I’d always wanted but there are times I wished I had a regular job. I always try to remember why I am doing this—to become the mom God wants me to be.
I am always there for my children, but this work-at-home-mom sometimes gets busy. I remember asking my son Noah what he likes best about life, he replied: “I like it that we are always together.”
WAHM with a Plan
If you’ve been struggling to balance work and family care, you need to evaluate your activities. Start planning. Here are some practical tips:
- Invest on your home office. Get a good Internet connection because it makes all the difference. You don’t want to be always cut off whenever you’re in a Zoom meeting or a webinar.
- Follow a schedule. List down all tasks. A routine must be communicated with your family especially with young kids. Set ground rules at home.
- Multitask. Plan when you will do chores like laundry, cooking, or the grocery. See how you can integrate work with chores by multitasking.
- If you can afford it, hire a kasambahay. Ask for help from relatives. You will be surprised that people may be willing to help.
- Have Breaks. Make sure you rest but be disciplined. Set a timer if you will be checking your social media or doing something else.
- Spend time with God. Before you start working, have time alone with God. Be intentional. You may also spend time with your child then do your actual work.
God Sees You
Like me, you may be struggling as a work-at-home-mom this season. Being in quarantine is challenging physically, mentally, and emotionally. Finding fulfillment is difficult these days but remember who you are in Christ. Moms, you are called for a purpose. Your duty as a mother is a priority.
Whether you’re working in an office or from home, honor God in everything you do. He is with you and knows your struggles. God is your help–your refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1) and He is more than willing to guide you.
