GlobalBX

Yes, moms do a marvelous job whether they’re in the office or at home. In fact,  they can do a great job doing office work while working from home. It all comes down to biology: women are built to multitask.

Whatever the job, there’s a mom at home able and willing to do the job. So, here are a few tips for the work-at-home mom to make that “home work” even more productive.

Dirt, no; pay dirt, yes. For moms, dirt is like the formula-one driver’s green light: once they see it, they go straight for the mop. It’s almost genetic, but remember, it really is not. As a work-at-home mom, it’s your duty to fight the urge to surge. It’s a surefire way to husband your time and preserve your productivity.

Organize work. Being a naturally multitasking creature doesn’t mean you’ll get everything done, done well, and done in time. So err on the safe side: make it your duty to write a to-do list, which should include your regular household chores. Having a list before you not only ensures that you don’t forget to pick up Junior from school when you’re rushing to meet deadlines, but it also allows you to wrap your brain around your tasks. It prevents you from getting overwhelmed.

Interruptions, interruptions. If you have a baby, work interruptions are inevitable, and you should not only expect them, but weave them into the fabric of your workday. You should look at them as natural breaks; if you don’t you’ll only end up frustrated, angry, distracted, and unproductive. Babyzone.com points out that 10 minutes is inconsequential in office time, but it means the world to a hungry baby or one who needs its diaper changed.

Be flexible. Always remember, says babyzone.com, that 9 to 5 is irrelevant when you’re a work-at-home mom, especially if you have a baby to take care of. Junior sleeps when he wants to and wakes up when you least want him to. Don’t sweat it; learn to work around interruptions. Learn also to sleep in three-hour stretches—very convenient when you have a baby who’s on flexi time, too.

Learn to say no in uppercase. This may seem trivial, but you’d be surprised how many moms feel uncomfortable saying it—and how many people unconsciously take advantage of this inability. Just because you work at home doesn’t mean that you don’t have the time for projects other than work. Just say no.