The day begins early for CL Tel Controller Sarah McChesney, often before dawn breaks and the house stirs. Quiet time is cherished. It’s usually between 5:00 and 6:00 a.m.
“I try to get up before the kids,” Sarah shares. It’s a strategy that allows her to tackle the most pressing tasks with a clear mind.
Flexibility and Technology
Sarah’s home is not just a living space; it’s a dynamic workspace equipped with a PC and a laptop. This setup allows her to move around the house, from her makeshift office with a working desk and dual monitors in the basement where her kids play.
“I can sit on the couch with my laptop,” she explains, illustrating how technologies like VPN and MaxUC enable her to stay connected, no matter where she is in her home.
Juggling Parenting and Professional Duties
Mid-morning and afternoon are a juggle of parenting and work. Sarah takes breaks to engage with her kids, taking them outside to burn off energy. All the while, her phone remains an essential tool.
“My phone is so important,” she emphasizes, noting how work calls are forwarded, ensuring she’s always reachable. 55% of employees prefer to use their own cell phone for work than a desk phone, according to Enterprise Apps Today.
Meeting Deadlines Amongst Chaos
Afternoons bring their own challenges, especially with meetings and looming deadlines. With a newborn at home, Sarah manages her responsibilities with a keen sense of prioritization. She understands the art of picking tasks that won’t suffer from sudden interruptions. “I try to do the stuff that requires more constant attention when the kids are asleep,” she says, revealing her strategy to balance work and family life.
Evening Rush Hour
Evenings are a flurry of activity – picking up kids, sorting through school bags, and preparing dinner. Sarah is in a race against time, trying to ensure everything is in order for the next day. “It’s usually chaos,” she admits, but there’s a system to the madness. She manages to keep the household running smoothly with a mixture of planning and improvisation.
The Unseen Hours
After the kids are tucked in, Sarah’s day is far from over. It’s time for her to deal with the day’s aftermath – dishes, preparing bottles, and planning for the next day. These unseen hours are crucial in maintaining the balance in her life.
Reflections and Advice
As she reflects on her role as a working mom, Sarah offers a piece of advice: “Working from home with kids is not as grand as it seems.” She stresses the importance of setting boundaries and having a supportive environment at work and home. Her journey is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of working mothers everywhere.
