Companies are mandating returning to office
Ok, let me start by saying I am by no means advocating for the mass transition employers are starting to mandate regarding their returning-to-office policy. As a matter of fact, I have been fighting it screaming and kicking for some time now. And let me tell you, everyone in my office knows my stance. They can all tell you my coined spiel on all of the pains of my hour-plus-long commute each way (please don’t get me started), my struggle to remember that people can hear me when I’m on calls and let the random “Are you serious”, slip out and let’s not talk about my one-woman show where I arbitrarily break out in song. Yes, all symptoms of working at home, alone for so long, and ADHD. After months or even years of enjoying the benefits of remote work, I was remote well before the mass exodus for which many can thank COVID, many employees are struggling now being asked to return to the office. The transition can feel overwhelming, especially when you’ve mastered the delicate balance of working from home while caring for your family. Suddenly, you’re facing the struggle and overwhelm. We all feel your pain.
Just thinking about juggling returning to office life with family responsibilities — can feel like a huge leap. Did I mention commute times to and from work?! It’s not easy and for the most part, unfortunately, there’s little we can do about it. The reality is companies’ returning to-office policies have been dusted off and are out in full force. Thankfully, there are ways to help ease the transition. I’ve picked up a few tips along the way to help you and your family adjust to the change. It’s not foolproof but it beats a blank.
Preparing Your Family for when you return to the Office
Let’s be real, as much as it feels like your world is crumbling down, it’s important to remember that this change won’t just affect you—it will also impact your family too. Preparing everyone emotionally and logistically is key. Start by having conversations with your spouse/partner and other family members to divide responsibilities. If you’re living the single life you may need to phone a close friend or family member to help.
Here’s how to get ready to return to the office:
1. Create a Meal Schedule:
One of the first things that can slip through the cracks during busy office days is meal prep. Plan your meals for the week, and consider using meal delivery services like HelloFresh to ease the burden. Even something as simple as slow-cooker recipes can be a lifesaver, allowing you to set it in the morning and have a warm dinner ready when you return home. Pick a day when you bring home your favorite quick meal from a nearby restaurant. We like Zaxby’s on Tuesdays. Plus you get a kids meal for 1.99 for each adult meal you buy so I get two kids meals for myself and pay only 4 bucks for my meal. That’s a win.
2. Who Helps with Homework?:
If you’ve been the go-to homework helper or test prep, now’s the time to delegate. Whether it’s your spouse, an older sibling, or even hiring a tutor for those challenging subjects, make sure someone is available to support your kids when they need help. If your child is struggling with independence, look into what your school offers. Many use apps like xtra Math and Prodigy. If your school doesn’t you can also look into options like Khan Academy, Mathnasium or Kumon to give them extra support while you’re away.
3. Manage Electronics in Your Absence:
With you no longer physically present to monitor screen time, managing electronics can become tricky. Set limits on devices using parental control apps like Bark, which can automatically restrict access during certain hours. Oftentimes your Internet provider allows you to restrict access by device. Game changer. You can also create a checklist for after-school activities, including time spent on screens, so your kids have a routine they can stick to.
Your in-office days will look different from your work-from-home days, but with a bit of preparation, you can make them as stress-free as possible. By no means will it be completely stress-free. But maybe just maybe you’ll be able to get out of the house on time with these tips:
1. Plan the Night Before:
Make mornings easier by laying out everyone’s clothes the night before, including yours (here are some ideas for dressing for work, in case you forgot). Pack lunches and snacks so you’re not rushing out the door. Invest in items like **Bento boxes** for organized lunches that can be prepped ahead.
2. Create Checklists for the Kids:
It can be helpful for kids to know exactly what needs to be done before and after school. A morning checklist might include brushing their teeth, getting dressed, and packing their backpack. An afternoon checklist can cover homework, snacks, and playtime. Magnetic checklists or whiteboards in the kitchen can serve as a visual reminder for them. For my tech-savvy families building routines on Alexa is a game changer.
3. Stay Connected with a Family Calendar:
Digital calendars like Google Calendar allow you to share schedules with your spouse and older kids, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Color-coding tasks—work, school events, extracurricular activities—can help visually organize your family’s day. This can be particularly helpful when you’re at the office and need a quick reminder of who’s picking up the kids or who’s at soccer practice.
4. Invest in Time-Saving Products:
Small investments in tech can significantly reduce stress. Consider a robot vacuum like the Roomba to help keep the house clean while you’re at work. Smart home devices, such as Alexa Show, can help manage reminders, schedules, and even homework time for the kids.
Managing the Emotional Transition
This change might be tough for everyone emotionally. It’s essential to acknowledge those feelings while fostering an atmosphere of encouragement and positivity.
1. Ease Your Own Guilt:
As moms, we often carry the weight of guilt when we’re not as present as we want to be. It’s important to remind yourself that going back to the office doesn’t make you any less of a good mom. In fact, by setting up systems that work for your family, you’re leading by example.
2. Talk to Your Kids:
Before you make the transition, sit down with your children and explain the new routine. Reassure them that, while your day-to-day presence may change, you’re still there for them. Setting up daily rituals, like phone calls during lunch or FaceTiming before bed, can help everyone stay emotionally connected.
3. Self-Care for You:
Finally, don’t forget about your own well-being. Returning to the office means less time for yourself, but it’s essential to carve out moments of self-care. Whether it’s reading or listening to audible on your commute or enjoying a cup of tea at night, small acts of self-kindness can keep you grounded.
4. Share your frustrations:
Don’t be ashamed to share frustrations with close friends. It’s great to talk things out, but remember that some may not be able to return to the office for various reasons. That may mean you may need to be prepared to support them during and after layoffs. This adult life is vicious.
Transitioning from remote work back to the office isn’t easy, but with some strategic planning and the right tools, it can be a smoother experience. By involving your family in the process, creating clear routines, and using helpful products, you can manage the change with confidence. Most importantly, remember to give yourself grace as you adapt to this new chapter in your life.
Are you preparing for the transition back to the office? How are you preparing and adjusting? Share your tips.