To Work From Home or Not, That Is The Question

To Work From Home Or Not, 

That Is The Question

(My journey the Summer of 2019 working from home with my three kids)

written by: Tiffany Martinez 

There are 86 days of summer vacation here in Montgomery County. As a mom of three, the summer is typically a whirlwind of kids bouncing back and forth between parents, grandparents, trips with mom, trips with dad, and trips with grandma and grandpa. This summer I challenged myself to not only provide the same fun, summer activities as usual but also manage my growing real estate business, from home. In past summers, I have found myself with only a few days of summer remaining and wondered where the summer time went. This summer was no exception. Now that the countdown back to school has officially begun, the trips are scarce and the kiddos are finally home with me with no interruptions. All of the balancing of activities and trips have come to an end and now we watch the clock tick by as we edge closer to another school year. This summer’s balance of work and kids from home would pose a problem if I had a more “traditional” job. However, as a Real Estate Agent, working from home is not only totally possible but sometimes the best option for getting the job done and spending the most time with the kids as possible. As much as my family loves to hike and camp, this summer’s sweltering temperatures made getting out in nature almost unbearable. With heat advisories most of the week, we made the most of our inside time as possible. We watched movies with popcorn on the living room floor, funny videos (that were reenacted more times than necessary). We listened to music and playing video games was on the agenda most days. “But, wait,” you may say, “you said you were WORKING from home!” Fret not, my friend, I did work, indeed. Though it proved to be difficult and counter-productive and as much as I hate to admit it, not something I would be able to do long-term. I still managed to tip the balance enough times to be productive in work related tasks. As much fun as we had on our own chill-cation, I definitely saw the importance of coming into the office to do my day-to-day tasks. My kids smiling faces, silly jokes and the lure of a comfy couch are pretty irresistible at times. Not to mention there is something to be said about getting dressed in my professional attire, surrounding myself by the real estate team I work with, that is undeniably motivating. I have a new found appreciation for all the the work-from-home moms and dads out there. The balancing act of home/kids with work/productivity, is not for the faint of heart. If you have wondered if working for home is right for you, I would love to share more of my experience with you. Meanwhile, you can catch me at my office where I can honestly say is the best place for this momma of three. 

(Who doesn't love painting rocks and pizza parties?!)