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5 Ways to Reduce Stress When Working From Home


Working from home gives us the ultimate flexibility, so why do we still feel stressed? It's time to prioritize self-care and feel better now!

Working from home truly gives us moms the best of both worlds. We have the ultimate flexibility -- the chance to have a fulfilling career without giving up a moment of family time. So how come we still have moments of stress, uncertainty, and questioning whether this was the right career move after all?

Those moments are important -- a gentle reminder that it's time to change course and start focusing on our ourselves. Everyone needs to take time for self-care, especially WAHMs. Here are some easy tweaks to reduce stress and remind yourself why you have the best job in the world!

Slow Down

What if I told you it's possible to lower your blood pressure, improve your marriage, and feel a new sense of peace by doing nothing? Taking time to meditate, even 2 minutes per day, reaps huge rewards. Try waking up 5 minutes earlier in the morning. Sit in a comfortable position and start to notice your breath. Slowly and gently extend your inhales and exhales, taking full deep breaths. Sit in this space until you feel ready to start the day.

Schedule Everything

As WAHMs, we have to be incredibly self-motivated and organized. Putting everything into your schedule is not OCD -- it's necessary for your sanity. Start by scheduling your highest priorities like time with family and friends. Schedule work time and write down exactly what you plan to accomplish during that time. By making and sticking to a plan, you will eliminate the stress of always feeling behind.

Delegate

Like many WAHMs, I learned the hard way that working from home is not a substitute for childcare. I felt like I was constantly behind in my work, while at the same time not spending enough time with my daughter. I would plan to finish an article during nap time, and of course that was the day she just cried until I came back in her room. Make a plan that works for your family, whether that means taking help from your mom, paying for an extra hour at preschool, or hiring someone. You will be so much more productive in an uninterrupted hour than trying to steal 10 minutes here and there throughout the day.

Move Your Body

Exercise banishes stress; there is no way around it. You've read the studies in health magazines. You know how good you feel after spin class. Find an activity you enjoy and just do it.

Nourish Yourself

Think about how much you accomplish in a given day. Your body needs nutritious fuel to keep going and feel good. Surviving on snacks and fast food leaves you feeling drained and sluggish. Make time once per week to make a meal plan. Having a plan will reduce stress in the grocery store and help you stick to the good stuff.

Establish a Morning Routine

I have read countless interviews with wildly successful people, and they all have one thing in common: they stick to their morning routine. It doesn't even matter what your routine entails. Starting your day with intention, rather than rolling out of bed late again, changes your outlook. So set your alarm, roll out the yoga mat, and brew some coffee... it's going to be a good day!

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