| 1. |
Designate regular, uninterrupted time to make phone calls and plan projects. Do not be tempted to do the ironing or any other household tasks during this time. |
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| 2. |
Try to use a room that you can lock up when you finish for the day. If this isn't possible, then clear away clutter when you finish and make sure there's no chance that little hands can lend any help! |
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| 3. |
Get up half an hour earlier and do domestic chores before you start work. |
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| 4. |
Learn to say no and prioritise. Just because your house is the one nearest to school, it doesn't mean that you always have to entertain your children's friends. |
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| 5. |
Make sure you don't become isolated. If you work for an organisation, go into the office regularly. At the same time don't neglect making new friends with similar aged children, there support and advice can, at times be priceless. |
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| 6. |
Keep up on a professional level. Invest in courses and subscribe to the publications you may not see now that you're no longer in the office. |
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| 7. |
If you choose to employ someone to care for the children in your own home, make sure they are competent enough to deal with things like mealtimes, tantrums and fights between siblings. |
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| 8. |
With cupboards full of tempting goodies, it's easy to snack and then wonder why you feel sluggish and overweight. Nibble on bananas and drink lots of water to combat visits to the biscuit tin. |
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| 9. |
Since you are contributing to the family finances, you deserve their support. Draw up a housework rota and ensure everyone sticks to it. It is good to encourage your children to help from an early age. |
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| 10. |
Dress for work. If you wear a baggy jumper and jeans everyday, you'll end up feeling lazy and inefficient. Mark the difference between your work and your relaxed state by your clothes. |
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| 11. |
Never turn on the television. |
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| 12. |
The best way to stay on top is to stay ahead. Try to complete work way in advance of deadlines. Leave it until the last minute and you can guarantee that somebody is going to be ill and need your undivided attention. |
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| 13. |
Relax and enjoy yourself, they really won't hold it against you. |
