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June 26, 2023

Revisiting 2023 Resolutions: Are You on Track?

Can you believe we are already halfway through the year 2023? It feels like just yesterday we were counting down the seconds to welcome the new year with our resolutions in hand. With all that has happened since then, it’s understandable if some of us may have let our resolutions slide a little. However, it’s never too late to recommit and get back on track.Let’s revisit our 2023 resolutions together and explore how we can make progress towards achieving our goals for the remainder of the year:

Why You Might Be Struggling to Meet Your Goals

It’s halfway through the year, and you might be feeling a bit disappointed with your progress towards your New Year’s resolutions. If you’re struggling to meet your goals, you’re not alone. It’s common to feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or distracted as the year progresses. One of the main reasons people struggle to meet their goals is because they set unrealistic expectations. Perhaps you set too many goals or gave yourself too little time to achieve them. Alternatively, maybe your goals were too broad or general, making it difficult to make meaningful progress towards them. 

Another reason for struggling with resolutions is that life gets in the way. Unexpected events such as illnesses, relationship problems, or financial setbacks can sidetrack even the most determined individuals. Finally, procrastination and lack of discipline are other significant roadblocks that people face when working towards their goals. The first step towards overcoming these challenges is to identify the reason(s) why you’re struggling. Once you understand why you’re struggling, it’s easier to take action and get back on track. So, if you feel stuck, take a few moments to reflect on what’s holding you back. Remember that it’s never too late to get back on track and start making progress towards your goals. Whether you’re three months behind or more, don’t give up. Stay committed and keep moving forward, even if you have to take small steps.

How to Get Back on Track

It’s easy to lose sight of your new year’s resolutions halfway through the year. Perhaps you’re facing unforeseen obstacles, or you’ve lost motivation to achieve your goals. But don’t fret, because it’s not too late to get back on track.

  1. Identify the Issue: First things first, identify what’s causing you to veer off course. Is it a lack of motivation, procrastination, or maybe you set an unrealistic goal? Once you identify the issue, it will be easier to take action.
  2. Break it Down: Large, overwhelming goals can be discouraging. Break them down into smaller, achievable milestones. It will give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your motivation to keep going.
  3. Get an Accountability Buddy: It’s always helpful to have someone hold you accountable for your actions. Find a friend or family member who can encourage you to stay on track.
  4. Re-evaluate: It’s okay to re-evaluate your goals and make necessary changes. If you’ve found that your original goal isn’t attainable, adjust it to something more realistic.
  5. Create a Plan: Develop a plan to achieve your goals. Write it down and make it visible to remind you of what you’re working towards.
  6. Take Action: Lastly, take action! Don’t just think about it, act on it. It’s essential to follow through with the plan you’ve developed. Remember, every little step counts towards achieving your ultimate goal.

Tips for Achieving Your Goals Moving Forward

  1. Set SMART Goals: Your goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Setting SMART goals will help you create a clear plan and stay focused on what you want to achieve.
  2. Create a Plan: Break down your goals into smaller, actionable steps and assign deadlines for each one.
  3. Track Your Progress: This will help you to stay accountable and keep you motivated as you see your progress towards your goals. You can use a journal, planner or an app to track your progress. Celebrate your wins and use them as motivation to continue pushing forward.
  4. Stay Positive: Focus on your strengths and use positive self-talk to boost your confidence. If you make a mistake, don’t be too hard on yourself, instead, use it as a learning opportunity and make adjustments to your plan.
  5. Find a Support System: Surround yourself with people who will encourage and support you in your journey. It’s essential to have people who understand your goals and can offer you support and motivation when you need it.

By implementing these tips, you can make progress towards your goals and achieve the things you set out to accomplish. Remember, it’s never too late to revisit your resolutions and get back on track towards the life you want to live.

How are your resolutions coming along? Reach out and let us know!

 

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June 15, 2023

Finding Balance as a Work-at-Home Mom: Lessons Learned and Tips for Success

As a mom who left a career in higher education to start a business and work from home, finding balance has been a journey. It’s not easy to juggle work and parenting, especially when you’re trying to grow your business at the same time. However, I’ve learned a lot along the way and would like to share my experience with other work-at-home moms.

When I found out I was pregnant, I knew it was time to take my business seriously. I started by setting a realistic schedule that allowed me to work during my most productive hours while also being present for my family. I also made sure to take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.

Once my baby arrived, I had to adjust my schedule again. I quickly learned that nap time was my most valuable work time. I also had to learn to let go of some things and prioritize what was most important. I outsourced some tasks and delegated others to free up more time for my family.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was learning to say no. As a work-at-home mom, it’s easy to say yes to everything, but that can quickly lead to burnout. I had to learn to set boundaries and only take on projects that aligned with my goals and values.

Overall, finding balance as a work-at-home mom takes time and patience. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to make mistakes and that every day is a new opportunity to do better. With the right mindset and systems in place, it’s possible to grow a successful business while also being present for your family.

As my baby is growing, I’ve had to continue to adapt to new challenges. I found that having a designated workspace helped me stay focused on work during work hours and transition to mom duties when I was with my baby. I also learned the importance of self-care and making time for myself, even if it was just a few minutes here and there.

Another thing that helped me find balance was connecting with other work-at-home moms. Having a support system of people who understood the unique challenges of balancing work and parenting was invaluable. We were able to share tips, offer encouragement, and remind each other that we were all doing the best we could.

One thing that I wish I had known earlier in my journey was the importance of setting boundaries with clients. I found myself working crazy hours and responding to emails at all hours of the night, which led to burnout and resentment towards my business. Once I started setting clear expectations with clients about my work hours and response times, I felt more in control of my schedule and was able to provide better service to my clients during designated work hours.

In conclusion, finding balance as a work-at-home mom is possible with the right mindset, systems, and support. It’s a journey with ups and downs, but with patience and persistence, you can grow a successful business while also being present for your family. Remember to take care of yourself, set boundaries, and connect with other work-at-home moms for support and encouragement.

 

Lisa Trinidad is an entrepreneur with a background in communications. She started a mommy blog, Busy Brilliant Mom, in 2016, offering tips for managing motherhood. Despite being a working mom, she left her corporate job in higher education to start Desk On The Run, a service that offers strategy and business management to small business owners. In 2022, she founded Latina Mom Meetup, which provides a space to meet and share resources with other moms in the area. Lisa resides in Brooklyn, NY and is a mother of three girls. Her journey is driven by a desire to establish a community among moms and meet them where they are in the journey through motherhood.

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June 12, 2023

10 Fun Ideas to Keep Your Children Entertained During the Summer

Summer is here, and so is the unique challenge of balancing work and childcare! As many of us are working from home with our kids in tow, it’s important to find creative ways to keep them entertained. To help, we’ve compiled a list of ten unusual and out-of-the-box ideas to keep your children engaged and having fun this summer. From homemade science experiments to outdoor scavenger hunts, you’re sure to find something budget friendly to keep your kids busy for hours.

1) Freeze Their Toys

This caught our eye on social media, and we just HAD to share it! Watch the full video HERE. Grab some of your kiddo’s favorite toys. Put them in a bowl of water and then freeze it. Take the frozen toys outside and let your child work on the block of ice to try and free their toys. This is a great activity to cool down, and it will help your child get creative. 

2) Create an Obstacle Course

This can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, depending on your child’s age and ability. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Set up a balance beam using a long piece of wood or a log.
  • Use hula hoops or pool noodles to create a “hopscotch” course.
  • Hang a rope or a tire swing from a tree for your child to swing on.
  • Place cones or other objects for your child to weave in and out of.
  • Create a tunnel or fort using cardboard boxes or blankets.
  • Use a small pool or water table to add a fun water element to the obstacle course.

Make sure to supervise your child and ensure that the obstacle course is safe. You can even time them to make it more exciting, and encourage them to try to beat their own time. This is a great way to get your kids active and burning off energy while you get some work done. You can also flip this around and ask your child to design their own obstacle course for you to complete!

3) Use Old Boxes

If there is one thing we all have sitting around in abundance, it’s old boxes (Amazon, anyone?)! There are so many great ways to recycle these with your children such as:

  • Let your kids create their own forts with boxes and duct tape
  • Ask your kids to build a car OR decorate one that you make from boxes
  • Lay boxes flat and have your children paint their own race track for their toy cars
  • Challenge your kiddos to come up with their own ideas!

From spaceships to entire cardboard cities, the sky’s the limit!

4) Have a Scavenger Hunt

To set up a scavenger hunt, first decide on a theme or a list of items that your kids will need to find. You can make it as easy or as challenging as you like, depending on the age and abilities of your children. Some ideas for themes might include a nature scavenger hunt, where your kids have to find specific plants or animals in the backyard, or a treasure hunt where they follow clues to find a hidden prize. Once you have your theme or list of items, it’s time to hide them! Be creative with your hiding spots, but make sure they’re safe and accessible for your children. You might hide things in the bushes, behind furniture, or up high on shelves.

When your kids are ready to play, give them the list of items or the first clue and watch as they race around the house or yard searching for their treasure. You can make it even more fun by adding in time challenges or other obstacles, like blindfolding one player or having them complete a task before they can move on to the next clue. Flip the script and ask your kiddos to design a scavenger hunt for you that you can complete after work!

5) Create A Numbers Game

If your child has a lot of the same toy (such as toy cars), then you can create a numbers game to help them learn! Create a “parking lot” with masking tape or markers on a cardboard box. Number each space. Take masking tape and then number each of your child’s toys and ask them to match the numbers. It can be even more fun if you set it up in a way where you can easily rearrange numbers on the parking spaces. If your kiddo is a bit older, you can even turn this into a math game. We used toy cars as an example, but any toy works! If your children have a lot of dolls, you can tell them the dolls need to get to their homes instead of their parking spaces.

6) Imagine A Toy Parade

Grab some masking tape, or string, or anything that can help you create some lines on the floor which can easily be removed later. Tell your child to line up their toys along the line to then create a toy parade which they can show you. This activity is great for younger kiddos that are learning to “color within the lines” so to speak. This can become more challenging after a straight line, create crazy loops and zig zags that they must match their toys to.

7) Create An Indoor Movie Space

Bring the drive-in inside! Use tip number three from above, and work with your kiddos to design some comfy and cool “cars” from old boxes. Then, set up a movie screen or television, and have your kids take their cars to the drive-in for a movie night! You can even set up a little concession stand and use some Monopoly money for your children to make purchases from the stand. If you have several kiddos, then you can challenge them to be in charge of the concession stand! You could also try showing short videos as intermission entertainment during a rainy-day double-feature, just be sure to set parental controls on YouTube to keep all the programming kid friendly and mom approved. 

8) Paint Rocks

You can start by taking your children on a nature walk to collect rocks of various shapes and sizes. Once you have enough rocks, set up a painting station outside or in a well-ventilated area inside. Give your children a range of colors to choose from and let their creativity run wild as they paint their rocks. Once the rocks are painted and dry, you can use them to decorate your garden or display them in your children’s room. They also make great gifts for friends and family. This activity is not only fun, but it also teaches your children about colors, textures, and nature. Take it a step further and put the rocks back along the walking trail for others to enjoy on their own hikes!

9) Construct Sailboats and/or Paper Airplanes

If your children like a challenge, ask them to create something they can race against each other with! Paper airplanes are simple for those that need to stay inside. Kids can decorate them and try to fold them in lots of different ways to find the best “flyer”. Or, if you can go outside, create some sailboats to see which one floats! There are kits you can purchase for this, or you can really push your kid’s creativity by asking them to find their own materials out in nature to discover what floats and what does not.

10) Bring Sports Indoors

If your child has a favorite sport they like to play such as bowling or even volleyball, ask them to create their own version of it indoors! With craft materials, kids can make things like bowling pins and a bowling ball for indoor fun, or they can use things like rubber bands and cardboard tubes to make their very own volleyball net. This can be an effective way to keep them entertained for hours while you work as they search for the best way to make a ball out of the materials they have on hand!

These ideas are a few of our own that our kids enjoy, but we would love to hear from you! What are your favorite ways to entertain your kiddos while you work from home during the summer months?

 

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April 10, 2023

3 Tools Every Remote Worker Needs in Their Toolkit

Working remotely means that you and your team must be well coordinated to ensure everyone is on the same page. We have noticed companies using three main tools to get the job done, and we wanted to share these with you! All of these tools are incredibly versatile and can help to streamline your workflow, boost productivity, and increase collaboration. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before seeking remote work — if you are not sure where to start, we offer training in these tools and more to prepare you for your dream remote position!

1) Asana

Asana is an incredibly popular tool for remote teams, and it’s not hard to see why. Asana allows you to easily manage tasks, track progress, assign tasks to team members, and keep everyone on the same page. It’s also great for organizing projects into different categories and tracking deadlines. You can easily set reminders and due dates, comment on tasks, attach files, and track progress across the board. You can also create groups and assign members to them, which helps with communication and collaboration.

Asana also offers reporting tools that let you track progress, analyze team performance, and get an overall view of how your project is progressing. The platform also offers integration with other tools such as Google Calendar, Dropbox, and Zapier, which makes it even easier to use. With Asana, you can create a comprehensive project plan and ensure that everyone is on the same page. With its easy-to-use interface and powerful features, Asana is an essential tool for any remote team; many teams use this or equivalent software. While each has its unique features and quirks, they tend to all work in a similar fashion. Once you learn one, you can easily use the others! If you are more familiar with another platform such as Monday, then mention that in your cover letter, résumé, and interview. Those skills are certainly transferable if the position you are interested in uses a different project management software than the one you have used.

2) Google Docs and Google Sheets

Google Docs is a powerful word processor that allows you to create, edit, and share documents online. It also provides collaboration features such as revision tracking and commenting so multiple users can work on a document at the same time. Google Sheets is a spreadsheet program that enables you to organize and analyze data. With Google Sheets, you can quickly create charts and tables, store data, and work collaboratively with other users.

Google Docs and Sheets are incredibly user-friendly and come with an abundance of features that can help make remote work easier. For instance, you can use the “Explore” feature to quickly get insights from your data. You can also easily format text, images, and other elements to improve the look and readability of your documents. The real-time collaboration features make it simple to share and review documents with others, even when you’re miles apart.

Whether you’re writing an important report, crunching numbers, or putting together a presentation, Google Docs and Google Sheets are essential tools for getting the job done right. As a remote worker, these two applications will become an indispensable part of your toolkit. If you are familiar with Microsoft Office’s products, then you will easily be able to use Google’s products!

3) Slack

Slack allows team members to communicate quickly and easily through messaging, file sharing, and voice and video calling. Slack also offers an array of integrations with other tools, including Asana, which helps to streamline team collaboration. The user interface is intuitive and makes it easy for team members to keep track of conversations, tasks, and updates. With the ability to create custom channels for specific topics or projects, Slack helps remote teams stay organized and on top of projects. This tool has grown to be one of the most-used platforms we see, followed closely behind by Microsoft Teams.

Here is what all these tools boil down to: you need to be familiar with a project management software (such as Asana), you need to be able to use tools that allow you to collaborate on your thoughts or numbers (such as Google Docs and Sheets), and finally, you need to know fast ways to communicate with other team members. As aforementioned, once you learn at least one of each of these three tools, you will be able to transfer those skills to others. This can seem overwhelming, but remember, we are here to help. We offer job training that covers tools like these and more from time tracking software to video call software. 

 

 

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March 20, 2023

5 Spring Cleaning Tips For An Organized Home Office

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it’s time for a good old-fashioned spring cleaning! Whether you’re working from home or just need a decluttered workspace, organizing your home office is key. Beyond the usual dusting or surface wipe down, an organized space can help you focus and stay productive during the day, which is why we’ve put together some of great spring cleaning tips for you! You may not be able to complete all of these spring cleaning tasks in a day, so perhaps you schedule an hour or so a day until you can get your office cleaned and organized. The rewards will surely be worth it!

1) Create a Filing System

Start by gathering all of your documents, such as bills, receipts, and other important paperwork. Sort them into categories and then create separate folders or manila envelopes for each category. Label each folder clearly, so that you know what’s inside it and can easily locate it. For example, a filing cabinet may contain folders labeled “Bills”, “Receipts”, “Tax Returns” and more. 

You can also create digital filing systems for your computer files. Sort digital documents, photos, and other files into folders on your desktop or hard drive. Create a separate folder for each topic or project and label it accordingly. This will help you quickly find the file you need when you need it. It’s also a good idea to back up your computer files to an external hard drive or cloud storage solution, just in case of a computer crash.

2) Go Digital

With the ever-increasing use of technology, it’s easier than ever to take advantage of all the available tools to help you organize your home office. Consider transitioning to digital storage solutions, such as cloud-based file sharing platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox, for organizing your documents. Doing so will help you keep important documents more secure and easily accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. Not only is this a great way to save space in your office, but it also allows for easy collaboration with co-workers or clients, if necessary. Plus, you can put tip number one to use here too.

This also applies to other paper items you might have around your desk: sticky notes, calendars, etc. There is an app for everything nowadays, and they can truly keep you on top of your game. Create a digital calendar with reminders for yourself. Get a digital notes app to organize those random thoughts that pop into your mind. If you like to have things on paper, that’s okay! You can use paper and apps to declutter your space and stay organized.

3) Purge

Channel your inner Marie Kondo and get rid of things that no longer serve you! As you sort through all of your documents, be sure to throw away anything that is outdated or no longer needed. If you have paper files that you want to keep, consider digitizing them with a scanner so that you can store them electronically instead. Additionally, it’s also important to go through your computer and delete any files that are not necessary. When cleaning up your computer files, be sure to empty out the recycle bin as well to free up more space on your hard drive. Doing this will help you declutter and keep your home office organized. If deleting files scares you, put tip #2 to use and find a digital service such as iCloud where you can store your files in case of emergency but in a way that does not affect computer storage space.

This tip is not just for files, either. Take a look at your workspace. Are old, scribbled notes cluttering your desk? Are there a million old coffee cups scattered around? Pens littered everywhere? Get rid of things you do not need, and clearly organize what you do need. Create a dedicated space where you can only keep one coffee cup at a time so they don’t pile up. Use an old jar to store all your pens. Throw away those notes that no longer make sense, even though you wrote them.

4) Label Everything

To label efficiently, use a standard format for all labels (e.g. name, date, and category). Additionally, use different colors for different categories or items so that you can quickly identify what’s what. For digital files, use an intuitive system like tags or folders with labels that are easily searchable. We’ve all been in a situation where we are on a video call and asked to share our screen to show a file, but we do not know which file to pick because they are called something like “ABC 1” or “ABC 2”. Taking time to rename your files with easily searchable names is very important! Finally, make sure your labels are visible and easy to read so you don’t waste time searching for what you need. 

5) Invest in Storage Containers

Investing in a few storage containers can go a long way in helping you achieve an organized and clutter-free workspace. Start by deciding what items need to be stored and find containers that are suited for the job. Plastic or cardboard file boxes are great for storing documents, while baskets or bins can be used to keep smaller items together. Make sure to label all containers clearly so you can easily find what you need when you need it. If you have limited space, consider buying stackable storage units to make the most of your available space. Once your containers are filled, place them out of the way but still within reach so you don’t have to search too hard when you need something. While getting your containers together, now is the time to dust and wipe everything down. Store it clean so it stays clean!

Digital storage containers are important too! Purchase an external hard drive and back up everything for the year on it. Label your drives by year and keep them in a waterproof container. This will clear up even more computer storage space, and it will ensure that things you do not need right at this minute are still within easy reach. As with tip number four, make sure you label everything on your hard drive so that it is easy to find later.

Remember, when you work from home you get to be completely in control of your work environment! Schedule a time in your calendar to work on cleaning up your office space. You will thank yourself in the future! How do you stay organized when working remotely? Share your tips with us!

 

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February 23, 2023

Loving What You Do: A Remote Worker’s Guide to Fulfillment

The combination of being a remote worker and a parent can be both a blessing and a challenge. On one hand, you have the freedom to work wherever and whenever you want, but on the other hand, you are also responsible for managing your home and family life. It can be difficult to find a balance between the two. However, we know that you love what you do as a remote worker and as a parent! Sometimes life can be challenging, and you might lose sight of the “whys”. In honor of Valentine’s Day, we wanted to share some tips on how to re-discover why you love working remotely as a parent! 

Tips for Finding Fulfillment as a Remote Worker

  1. Do What You Love: Find what you are good at and what you enjoy, and follow that passion!
  2. Take Breaks: Burnout is real and it is the number one killer of love for a job. Take breaks. Take vacations. Spend time with loved ones.
  3. Change It Up: Doing the same thing day and day out can create a monotonous routine that you come to despise. Change things up sometimes! Add a new client. Do your schedule in reverse. Treat yourself to a coffee from your favorite shop and start your day a little later.
  4. Try Something New: Changing your routine can be great, but if it’s still all the same things, you can get burnt out really fast. Challenge yourself to do one new thing per month! Maybe that’s a new project or something as simple as trying a different flavor of coffee.
  5. Remind Yourself of Your WHY: Ask yourself: why did you start doing this? What drew you to this line of work? Take some time to revisit what started that initial spark.
  6. Celebrate Your Wins: Even small wins should be celebrated! Pick one good thing that happened each day. This will help you to focus on the positive.
  7. Create a Community: Surround yourself with people that encourage you on your remote work journey! This can be family, friends, or an online community like our Facebook Group where you can network with like-minded people.

Tips for Finding Fulfillment as a Parent

  1. Take Time for You: Parenting can be demanding, and it’s easy to forget about our own needs when focusing on those of our children. Remember that taking time for yourself is essential for you to stay balanced and happy. Find time for a relaxing walk, a sunset moment of reflection, schedule time for your favorite activities or hobbies, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
  2. Make Time for Connection: Establishing strong, positive connections with your children is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a parent. Make sure you create opportunities to connect with your kids every day, whether it’s through play, conversation, reading, or other activities. 
  3. Set Realistic Expectations: As a parent, you want the best for your children, but it’s important to remember that you won’t always be able to give them everything they want. Be realistic about what you can do and set achievable goals to help them reach their potential.
  4. Celebrate Small Wins: No matter how small the accomplishment, don’t forget to celebrate your children’s successes with them. It’s important to show them that you appreciate their efforts and celebrate the wins in life together.
  5. Let Go of Perfectionism: Perfectionism can lead to feelings of disappointment or frustration when things don’t go as planned. Try to practice acceptance and acknowledge that parenting is an imperfect process.
  6. Give Yourself Grace: Don’t be too hard on yourself if you make mistakes. We all make mistakes, and it’s important to forgive yourself and move on.
  7. Seek Support: Connecting with other parents can help you stay positive and motivated. Join a support group or find an online community where you can share experiences and offer support to other parents.

Spreading the Love

As you might have noticed, the tips provided above for remote work and parenting really mirror each other and go hand in hand. If you master one, you can definitely master the other! But remember, all things take time and there will be mistakes along the way. If you feel yourself losing your passion for either, take some time to figure out how you can recapture that again. As any parent can tell you, there will be days where you want to pull your hair out! But, there are also incredibly rewarding days that make it all worth it. The same can be said of remote work. Stay the course and show your work and family some love!

How do you keep your love for work and parenting going? Let us know so we can share your tips with our community! 

Happy Valentine’s Day to everyone — thank you for being part of the HireMyMom family! We truly love all of you and are incredibly thankful that you are here with us. Spread some love today and let those special people in your life know just how much you mean to them.

 

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February 20, 2023

5 Tips for Making the Transition to Working from Home

Making the transition to working from home can be a daunting experience, especially if you have previously worked in an office full-time. Adjusting to the new environment and routine of a work-from-home job can be challenging, but with the right tools and guidance, the process can be made much smoother.

1) Set Up a Dedicated Workspace

When transitioning from an in-office job to working from home, it is important to create a dedicated workspace. This is the space you will be using to get your work done and should be comfortable and free of distractions. Make sure you have a comfortable chair, a desk with enough space to spread out your work, and adequate lighting. If possible, try to keep your workspace away from where you relax and sleep. This will help you stay productive and focused. Additionally, make sure you have the necessary tools for work: a laptop, printer, charger, etc. Having all of these items in one dedicated area will make it easier to stay organized and efficient.

2) Get Dressed for Work

Putting on clothes that are comfortable but still semi-professional helps signal to your brain that it’s time to start working. This doesn’t mean you have to dress to the nines every day; just throw on a nice shirt or blouse and some comfortable pants or a skirt. You don’t want to feel too relaxed at home that you can’t focus on the task at hand.

3) Set Office Hours

Establishing regular office hours will help you stay on task and provide a consistent structure for your day.  Creating a schedule that works for you is key. Think about what hours work best for you and your family, as well as any clients you may have. Be sure to factor in lunch breaks, rest time, and other tasks that need to be completed each day.  By setting office hours and sticking to them, you can help ensure your productivity is maximized. You may also want to consider setting aside specific times each week to reach out to colleagues or clients. Having weekly check-ins or video conferences with coworkers can help boost morale and stay connected. 

4) Take Breaks

It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of work, so be sure to set aside time to step away from your computer and relax. Taking a break can help you reset, refocus, and restore energy levels so that you can stay productive and efficient while working from home. A few ideas for taking a break include taking a short walk, doing some stretching, listening to music, or even just getting away from your workspace for a few minutes. You may also want to make a schedule for yourself with dedicated break times to ensure that you are not overworking yourself. 

5) Connect with Co-Workers

First and foremost, take advantage of online communication tools like Zoom, Slack, and Skype to keep in touch with your team. Scheduling regular check-ins with your coworkers will help you to stay up-to-date on projects and ensure everyone is on the same page. You can also make use of collaborative tools like Google Docs and Trello to track progress on different tasks. These tools make it easy for team members to collaborate even when they are working from different locations. Finally, consider setting up virtual “water cooler” chats or happy hours with your coworkers. It’s important to maintain good relationships with your team, so make sure to set aside time each week to connect and socialize with your coworkers. Doing so will ensure that you are able to create a productive work environment even when working remotely.

Have you already made the transition to working from home? Share your best tips with us on how you made the transition! Just starting to transition but still have questions? Reach out to our community and ask for help!

 

 

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January 30, 2023

10 Ways to Boost Your Productivity When Working from Home

Working from home can be a great way to stay productive, but it can also be difficult to stay motivated and focused when the distractions of home life come into play. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of your productivity and make sure you’re getting the most out of your day. Here are ten ways to boost your productivity when working from home so you can maximize your time and accomplish your goals:

1) Set a schedule and stick to it.

Set a realistic schedule that allows you to balance your work and personal life. Make sure you’re giving yourself enough time to get all your tasks done, but don’t overbook yourself or you may become overwhelmed. Having a schedule also helps you avoid procrastination. Make sure you’re setting achievable goals for yourself so you don’t become discouraged. Break large tasks down into smaller, manageable pieces so that it’s easier to stay on track. It’s also a good idea to set regular deadlines for yourself so that you have something to work towards.

2) Set up a dedicated workspace.

Make sure the workspace is free of distractions, like televisions and other electronics. Designate a comfortable chair and desk that you can use to sit and work. You may even want to set up a filing cabinet or shelf to store important documents and supplies. Additionally, make sure your workspace is well-lit and has good ventilation. Not only will this ensure you have an inviting work area, but it will also help you stay productive and healthy.

3) Take breaks!

Allowing yourself to step away from your desk and take a break will help you stay focused, energized, and productive. Make sure that you get up and move around, grab a snack or a cup of coffee, and spend some time away from the computer. Consider taking breaks throughout the day or setting a timer to remind you to get up and stretch or meditate for a few minutes. When you come back to work, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to tackle the next task.

4) Get dressed for work.

When working from home, it’s easy to fall into the trap of wearing the same pajamas all day, every day. While this might be comfortable, it can also be detrimental to your productivity. Getting dressed for work each morning is one of the best ways to set yourself up for success. Putting on your “work clothes” will help put you in the right frame of mind and make it easier to transition into work mode. It’s important to find a balance between being comfortable and looking professional. You don’t have to dress up as if you are going into the office, but try to stick to items that you would normally wear to work. Opt for clothing that is comfortable yet still makes you look professional. This can be anything from an outfit you already own to something new that you purchased specifically for working from home. 

5) Set boundaries with family and friends (and kids!).

One of the most important things to do is to set expectations for when you are available. It’s important to make sure everyone understands that you are busy during the day and not available for socializing. You can also put up a sign that says “Working from Home – No Distractions Please” to make sure everyone respects your space. If you have kids in the house, it’s essential to create a structure that allows them to understand when it’s time for work and when it’s time for play. Consider setting up a dedicated workspace for yourself that is away from the living area where they can play and engage in activities while you work. You may also want to set up a schedule or plan to have another adult take care of them during your work hours so that you can stay focused on your tasks. It’s also important to remember that everyone in the house has their own needs and goals, so setting boundaries can help everyone stay productive. Make sure everyone knows that it’s not personal, but rather just about managing time and setting expectations.

6) Stick to a routine.

Start your day with some sort of exercise or activity. Not only will this get you into the right mindset, but it will also help wake up your body and mind. This could be as simple as going for a quick jog or a more involved workout. Then, have a set time for breakfast and lunch, where you focus on refueling your body and taking some time away from your work. By having a daily routine and sticking to it, you’ll be able to stay on track with your work and create better boundaries between work and home. This will help you stay organized and productive while still being able to enjoy the benefits of working from home.

7) Avoid distractions.

Distractions are one of the biggest killers of productivity when you’re working from home. Whether it’s your cell phone, television, or other people in the house, there are plenty of things that can easily pull you away from your work. One of the best ways to avoid distractions is to designate a workspace for yourself. Make sure it is away from any places that can be distracting and make sure you don’t bring your phone or any other devices with you that can draw your attention away from your work. If you find yourself getting distracted by noise, consider using noise-canceling headphones or earbuds. Listening to some relaxing music can help drown out any distractions. Also, be sure to turn off notifications on all your devices while you’re working, as they can easily pull you away from the task at hand.

8) Find a support group.

Working from home can be an isolating experience, especially if you are the only one in your house. To combat this, it is important to find a support group that can provide you with emotional and practical support when you need it. A support group can consist of other remote workers, freelancers, or even just friends who are in similar situations. Having a support group to lean on during tough times can be a great source of comfort and help boost your morale. Sharing ideas, encouragement, and advice with each other can help you stay motivated and productive. You can also use your support group as a sounding board to brainstorm solutions to any problems you may be having with your work or working from home. Having people to turn to when you’re feeling stuck can be invaluable. You can always engage with us on social media for support, and check out our Facebook group where you can network with other work-from-home moms. 

9) Take care of yourself.

Exercise regularly, eat healthy, get enough sleep, stay organized, and take breaks! Remember, taking care of yourself is an essential part of productivity!

10) Reward yourself!

When you complete a task or reach a goal, think of something special you can do for yourself to recognize your hard work. This could be as simple as taking a few minutes to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, reading a chapter of your favorite book, or taking a walk around the block. Make sure to take the time to truly appreciate your accomplishments and give yourself the recognition you deserve. You can also set larger rewards for yourself at the end of the week or month. Whether it’s getting a massage, treating yourself to a special meal, or taking a day trip somewhere, rewarding yourself for reaching milestones will help motivate you to keep going. No matter how big or small, rewards are an essential part of staying productive when working from home. So make sure to take the time to recognize your hard work and give yourself the recognition you deserve.

How do you stay productive when working from home? Share your tips with us!

 

 

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January 2, 2023

1099 vs. W-2 Employees: How to Choose for Your Business

Every business owner is responsible for deciding which category of employees to hire: W-2, or 1099 contractors. In order to find the right person for the job, however, you need to understand what each designation means and how it will impact your business and the person you’re hiring. In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at 1099 vs. W-2 employees and help you determine which designation is best suited to your needs so that you can start bringing on new employees or contractors with confidence!

The Difference

W-2 employees are employees who work full time and receive a paycheck from the company they work for — there are cases where people work part-time as well, and their taxes, social security, and other benefits are taken care of by their employer. Employees also have access to things like health insurance and vacation time while 1099 contractors do not. Independent contractors are simply hired on to complete specific tasks or projects. Another key difference is that you can deduct expenses related to providing a service (such as software used) from your income when you work with an employee but not when you use a contractor — which means that if your business has high operating costs, it might be beneficial to consider hiring someone as an employee instead of using 1099 contractors because of the tax benefit.

The Pros and Cons

W-2 employees have a set salary and are typically eligible for benefits, such as health insurance, 401k and life insurance. A 1099 contractor can be paid by the hour or on a project basis, which means they’re responsible for their own taxes and don’t get benefits. Some businesses prefer to use 1099 contractors because they’re more flexible and can be terminated at any time without notice, while others may want the stability of a full-time employee. The decision comes down to what you need in your business at this point in time and how much work you want to put into managing payroll taxes and benefits packages.

How to Choose

When choosing between a 1099 contractor and a W-2 employee, there are many factors to consider. It’s important to know the difference between the two because you need to make sure that you follow all IRS regulations about classifying someone as either an independent contractor or an employee — failing to do so could result in heavy penalties down the road. You can find more details on the IRS website HERE that will help you learn how to classify the different types of employees.

Another factor to consider is whether you have the resources and ability to offer benefits such as medical insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions on your own. If you don’t, then it would be more beneficial (and less costly) to hire an independent contractor who may be covered under their spouse’s plan or who can provide their own benefits. 

An additional factor to consider when deciding between a 1099 contractor and a W-2 employee is what type of work they’ll be doing. If the job includes constant work that is repeated regularly, an employee is a good choice for this position because they are less likely to turn over and will be able to complete the job as scheduled. If the job includes more one-off projects, that is where a contractor can be very beneficial. 

What to Include in Your Job Descriptions

Here at HireMyMom, we often see some confusion surrounding W-2 and contractor positions when listings are posted by companies. More often than not, companies forget to mention which kind of employee they are looking for, and then extra time is spent interviewing candidates that quickly realize they do not want the job because they were looking for a W-2 position OR a contractor position. We recommend mentioning up front in your job listing what you are looking for, which includes if you want someone to start as a contractor that you hope to convert to a W-2 position in the future.

Sometimes candidates are applying to multiple positions or they just miss that you mentioned that in your job description (it’s happened to all of us!). When you reach out to a potential candidate make sure to disclose again what you are looking for with regards to hours and type of position. It’s also best practice to again mention this in the interview just to make sure everyone is on the same page.

 

Disclaimer. The information contained in this site is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this site without seeking legal or other professional advice.

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December 26, 2022

A New Year, a New Look: Exciting Projects on the Horizon

As we enter into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the successes of the past year and to look forward to exciting projects that are on the horizon. We are eager to continue building on our past successes and strive to take on even more ambitious projects in 2023. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the exciting projects that we have lined up for the coming year.

2022: A Year in Review

What a crazy year it has been! Does anyone else feel like they blinked and it was over? Lots of new projects came and went that were front and center — and some that were behind the scenes! 

At the beginning of the year, we started off by offering two master classes for small business owners and job seekers. We quickly realized that it’s hard to coordinate classes with everyone’s schedules! That’s when we converted it to Cultivate, an online course that you learn on your own time which includes a one-on-one coaching session with HireMyMom founder Lesley Pyle!

We worked with some wonderful moms to create video testimonials that we just added to the website, perfect to start off the new year with!

Our own team changed with a few long-time friends switching to full-time moms and a few new friends that we onboarded. We also implemented a program to help you get to know our team by sharing information about them on our social channels to commemorate work anniversaries, new additions, and just fun bios for you to better get to know the folks behind HMM.

We started a brand new TikTok channel — check it out and give us a follow! We will share tips, highlight some available jobs, and throw in a fun video or two with popular trends (you might even catch us dancing!).

What’s Ahead for the New Year

Coming soon we will be…

…AND LOTS MORE!

Your Suggestions

Thank you so much for being part of the HireMyMom family for the past year — we can’t wait to continue with you into 2023. As always, we value your feedback! What should we update? What should we add? What should we remove? Reach out and let us know! We would love to hear how we can offer more classes, tweak current services, and expand our offerings to grow with you; let us know what resolutions you’re setting and how we can help you achieve those. Happy New Year!

 

 

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