How to draw the line between work and home

That's the million dollar question for us working mothers!

It is often very difficult to compartmentalise.  This is not something I do very naturally.  I have to consciously make the effort to remember and draw the line.  I fall down often on this point - I allowed my stress at work to spill over into my home life and less times, the other way.  It helps me to do something deliberately to remind myself.  Here are some of my ways to stop work from invading into my home life, perhaps you have your ways to share?

1 Shut down my laptop
When I have finished my day's work, I shut down my laptop instead of putting it on hibernate or standby mode.  This helps to tell me work is done and let's start to have a life.

2 Put my work mobile on silent mode
Most times when I finish work, I either put my work mobile on silent mode.  Sometimes I go to the extend of not responding to work SMS'es and calls, especially if they are not urgent.  This will draw the line for me and others that this is my private time - do not disturb.

3 Stop for a relaxation activity before going home
I try to do this especially when I am having a particularly difficult time at work.  A coffee, an express manicure or even just window shopping would help me leave the difficult emotions and mood, and calm myself down before I meet my kids or husband.  Yesterday, my husband dragged me off to a dart bar to have a quick drink with a few friends and a couple of dart games.  I did not even realised I needed it! 

4 Have a shower first
This is one that is the easiest to implement and the one I often forget about.  After greeting my family, before I get involved in anything, I would have a shower first (we like showers more than baths in Singapore).  This is metaphorically washing all that of work and refresh me to enjoy my home life.

5 Go for a run
I am most lazy to do this one, but this has contributed to some really good results.  If I get home early enough, I would change into my gear, put on some blasting music on my iPod and go for a run round my neighbourhood.  Even if it is just 15 mins, it gives me energy and relaxes me.  I also get my day's exercise in.

Now if I would just do what I preach...