Many people struggle to balance work with
family life, and this has been reported in a wide range of studies and surveys.
In one survey, 50% of working dads stated that they struggled to balance work
and family responsibilities.
It also found that 56% of working women
found balancing career and family difficult. It seems that there aren’t enough hours in the
day to do all you have to do at work and spend quality time with your family.
So, what can you do when you feel torn
between work and family?
1. Change your Outlook & Stop Feeling Guilty
Many people believe that working hard is
the only way they can be successful and get ahead, but they also believe that
family comes first. But, these two ideas are conflicting.
People try to adhere to both of these
philosophies, but as they are opposing, it’s not possible and they only end up
feeling guilty.
That’s why you need to change your outlook.
You need to let go of perfectionism. Realize that when you are at work it
should be your main focus and when you are with family that should be your main
focus.
2. Schedule in Time for Family
While your career may be important to you,
family should be a priority. You need to find time in your life for both. It’s
easy to fit work into your schedule, because, unlike with family
responsibilities, there’s a set time you need to be there and a set time that
you need to leave.
That’s why family responsibilities can
sometimes fall by the wayside. So, you need to plan your week, and schedule in
quality time with your family. This doesn’t mean everyday activities, like
dinner.
You need to schedule in real quality family
time, like a date night with your significant other, or taking your kids to the
park. When you schedule in activities, you are more likely to do them. Spending
quality time with family will recharge your batteries and make your work/life
balance better.
3. Separate Work Time from Family Time
Technology has enhanced life in many ways,
but it has also made separating work time and family time even more difficult.
It’s easy to be distracted by work during family time when you’re checking emails
or receiving voicemails from your boss.
So, make sure that you separate work time
from family time. When you are with your family, shut your phone off and don’t
check your work email.
So, by making a few simple changes, you can
make sure that you get more enjoyment out of your weekly routine.