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It’s day 55,4128 of the mandatory quarantine, and if someone would have told me we would be in our homes 23 hours out of the day, arguing with a toddler over snacks and cartoons, I would’ve asked, “What crime did I commit?” But, here we are, and our new normal consists of social distancing from the people we love, and quarantine with the people we love most. I am a wife, a mom to a 3-year-old boy, and I work from home. Some moms may find it lonely, for others it may peaceful, but for the working moms…. well I’ll give you the good, the bad, and the ugly. Let me grab my wine!
The Good – The Gift of Time
We must admit, the opportunity to slow down and think is a gift some of us haven’t had in years!! This time of reflection definitely opened doors for self-care, old hobbies once lost in the everyday hustle and bustle, and most importantly extra time for the family. Whether you are Facetiming a friend or checking on grandma in another state, this time helped me remember how important relationships are and that we often take them for granted.
While playing hide-and-seek, 10 times a day, can be exhausting, it surely beats commuting to work! Plus, the guy that I run into in my kitchen every morning isn’t half bad, I kind of like him! This new normal has even allowed me to be creative as a mom and a wife. I find myself looking up new arts and crafts to entertain my 3-year-old and new recipes to cook. Who knew that adult punishment could be so rewarding?
The Bad – Working from Home with your family
Have you ever been on a conference call and your toddler walks into your office and announces, “Mom, I have to pee!”. Well, I can thank Coronavirus for that. Working from home sounds good and probably is ideal for most people who have been going into an office for over 10 years. But, quarantine life has remixed this gift by adding a spouse and children to the mix. Trying to maintain a level of professionalism, while simultaneously answering my husband’s third question about where something is in the house (that he also lives in) and telling my son to stop jumping off the couch is a skill that I never imagined having. I’ve definitely added that to my resume.
Also, finding some ME time has become a struggle. As a work from home mom before quarantine, my peace and quiet occurred during the day. With the husband at work, kid at the daycare, and my work caught up, I was able to enjoy some much-needed personal time. Now with everyone at home, locking myself in the bathroom will have to suffice.
The Ugly – The Worrying
A friend recently stated that wives/moms are either the head or the neck of the family, and sometimes both! This spoke to my soul as a working mom. This new normal can be scary and overwhelming for a mom. We spend 90% of our day either worried, making decisions that affect our family, or solving a problem. We are completely out of our element of control and this new state of worry can consume us if we allow it. The ugly is not knowing how long this will last or how to keep my family safe, while still maintaining some type of normality. It is important during the ugly stage to educate yourself on what’s going on. Continue giving your family the support they need but also maintain your mental health to ensure survival.
Whether you are currently experiencing the good, the bad, the ugly, or maybe all three, remember that being a mom and wife already makes you a superhero. Put on your cape, grab some wine, and continue to kill it. This new normal is temporary, but your superpowers are forever.
Great article i totally agree
You are so right i can relate
Totally! I can relate!!
Good read! I definitely identify with “The Bad.” When will this be over, sheeesh!