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How to balance work and family

How to balance work and familyYes, you can both have a family and a job. Whether you are a woman or a man, it is possible to balance the responsibilities of both work and family. This does not, however, mean that it is easy to do so. Here are some tips to help you find that the balance that you crave and deserve:

Balance between children and spouses – realize that you do not just need to find time and energy to spend with your kids, but with your spouse, as well. When you have children and a job, it can be difficult to find time for a little romance. Set aside some time at least once a week for just you and your spouse. Hire a babysitter, or even just spend some time together after the children have gone to bed, no matter how tired you are. While spontaneity may be more romantic, sometimes setting up a schedule is more reasonable. Note: while it is important to spend time as a whole family, it is also very important to spend individual time with not just your spouse, but with your children, too.
Keep family and work spheres separate – do not bring your work problems home with you or your family problems to work with you. When you are with your family, you should not be thinking about the client that you lost or the work you will need to complete tomorrow – you need to be thinking about your family!
• Involve your family in your work – while you should leave work at work and family at home, you can involve your family in your work. Let them know what you do. Let them share in the excitement of a promotion, etc. If possible, take your children to work with you every once in a while, thereby allowing you to both work and spend time with your kids.
Get some sleep – yes, it can be difficult to find time to sleep when you are trying to find time for work or for your family, but if you are better rested, the time you spend at the office and at home will be better spent. You’ll be able to accomplish more work, and you will therefore be less stressed when at home with your family. And you will be more aware when with your family, as well, make the quality time you spend with them more quality.
Arrange your work schedule to fit your family schedule – work at home when possible. Get a job close to home so that you do not have to waste time commuting. Find the time to attend your children’s dance concerts and baseball games. Call your family when you have breaks at work or when you are on a business trip.
¥ Have your family at the office Рnot literally. Instead, bring photos for your desk. Share stories about your family with your co-workers on breaks (do not be excessive in your story-telling, but do not be afraid to bring up the funny thing your five-year-old said yesterday, etc.)

For more tips and ideas specifically for working mothers, check out:
http://www.bluesuitmom.com/food/


 

 

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