Discover how to effectively balance work and family during the summer break by utilizing coworking spaces.
Benefits of Using Coworking Spaces
It is almost the end of the school year and if you are a work from home parent, you may be starting to panic about the craziness that ensues once kids are home during your work day. Not to worry, there are places you can go to work and we’re not talking about coffee shops. Have you checked out local coworking spaces as an option? One of the major benefits of using coworking spaces is the opportunity to escape the chaos of having kids at home during the summer break. Working from home can be challenging when you have children around, but coworking spaces provide a dedicated and professional environment where you can focus on your work.
Another benefit is the sense of community that coworking spaces offer. You can connect with like-minded professionals, network, and collaborate on projects. This can help you feel less isolated and more motivated in your work.
Additionally, coworking spaces often provide amenities such as high-speed internet, comfortable workstations, meeting rooms, and even complimentary coffee or snacks. At The Village Hive, we also have social events and lunch & learns for our members. These amenities can enhance your productivity and make your workday more enjoyable.
Tips for Finding the Right Coworking Space
When looking for a coworking space, consider the location. It should be conveniently located near your home or your children’s activities, so you can easily drop off and pick up your kids without spending too much time commuting. At our Markham location, we are close to many summer camps and we often have parents coming in the summer months after they drop their child off at camp.
Another important factor to consider is the facilities and amenities offered by the coworking space. Make sure it has all the necessary equipment and resources you need to effectively carry out your work.
Additionally, take into account the community and atmosphere of the coworking space. Look for a space that aligns with your values and work style, and where you feel comfortable and inspired.
Lastly, consider the cost and membership options. Compare different coworking spaces to find one that fits within your budget and offers flexible membership plans. You can consider day passes or if you need 5 days/week or more a 24/7 access membership might be more useful and economical.
Managing Your Schedule Effectively
To effectively manage your schedule during the summer break, it’s important to establish a routine. Set specific working hours and communicate them to your family, so they know when you need uninterrupted time for work.
Prioritize your tasks and create a to-do list to stay organized. Break down your work into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each task. This will help you stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Consider using productivity tools and techniques to optimize your time. Use time-tracking apps, project management software, or the Pomodoro Technique (fixed time intervals for focus work where you ignore all notifications, texts, calls and emails) to enhance your productivity and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Don’t forget to schedule breaks and quality time with your family. Take short breaks throughout the day to recharge and spend dedicated time with your kids to create special memories during the summer break.
Setting Boundaries with Work and Family
Setting boundaries is crucial for balancing work and family during the summer break. Clearly communicate your availability and working hours to your family, so they know when you can be interrupted and when you need focused time for work.
Create a designated workspace within your home or at the coworking space where you can separate work and family. This will help you mentally switch between your roles as a parent and as a professional.
Establish rules and expectations with your family regarding interruptions. Let them know when it’s acceptable to approach you while you’re working and when they should try to solve their own problems or wait until your designated break time.
Lastly, practice self-care and set aside time for yourself. Taking care of your own well-being will enable you to be more present and productive in both your work and family life.
