Day in the Life
By Miranda Stevens

Hi my name is Miranda from NYC, mother of one, my lovely 2 year old boy Taylor and wife of my husband of 8 years, Thomas. I would like to share my work at home experiences and challenges.

I started to work from home as soon as Taylor turned one. I searched day and night trying to find something that can fit my schedule. Then one day that time has come. I ended up taking a telemarketing/appointment setting position. I first said wow this company only wants 10 hours from me a week, yeah that was easy said then done. After 2 weeks of battling with the job and being a full time mom I had to get a grip and really figure out what will work for me.  So that is when I had to sit down and create a plan. A plan that will not neglect my motherly duties and the job that can help supplement my husband’s income and that I will feel happy about doing.

As I formed my plan things became easier.  I took control over the situation then the situation taken control of me.

The Best Benefit of Working from Home:  I love the fact that I can stay home with my child . I truly feel as if I am two different women sometimes -- one who is a busy mom of a two-year-old and the other a person with much to give to my job and to my clients.

My Biggest Work from Home Challenges: Trying to work while my son is demanding my undivided attention. But a routine started to form . Routine to work during his naps .  I would work diligently while he was napping. Even though my plan was 2 hours a day 5 days a week, if he took those long naps that extra time given was put into my job. So I was able to get another couple of hours in. These are my power workdays. I was able to put in my 10 hours Mon – Fri or maybe sometimes even sooner taking a day off just for me and him or just for me J. Using this system, I've been able to work successfully during the day and not feeling the pressure of not making my 10 hour goals.  You must enjoy the work  you are doing because that will make it so much easier. Discipline is the key to success. We all know there are a lot of distractions when you are home.

Secret to Success: Being flexible. I need to happily -- not begrudgingly -- be able to put aside what I am doing and hang out with Taylor. At the end of the day, he is the reason I am doing this. Another secret is my husband's support. He has believed in me from the beginning, which is a huge confidence booster.

Top Tip for Balancing Business and Family: Respect your couple time and family and find a company that understands that there is a reason you are working from home and it is to be with your family and take care of their needs. The last thing you want to do is jeopardize your relationship and neglect of your child.