Balancing work and family is never easy. Each working caregiver’s job is different, and even within the same company, different managers may be more or less supportive of you. But there are effective things to do that can help you better manage your caregiving and work responsibilities. Consider the following suggestions, and adapt those that might work for you:
Learn your company’s policy about caregiving and whether there is an employee assistance programme. If you are uncomfortable talking with your supervisor, look in the company’s personnel manual or other human resources publications.
Ask your human resources or personnel department to give you information on the Family and Medical Leave Act. If appropriate, ask that a copy be sent to your supervisor.
Take advantage of flexitime policies. Ask for a flexible schedule if a formal policy is not in place. Offer to work a less desirable shift to get flexitime, or be willing to make up time taken for caregiving by working days or shifts when most people want to be off. This flexibility on your part shows your employer that you are committed to the company and to your job.
Consider job sharing or working part-time if it could work for you. Whenever possible, avoid mixing work with caregiving. If you have to make phone calls or search the Internet for information related to your parent’s needs, do it on your lunch break.
Manage your time well at home and at work. Set priorities, and then accomplish the most important items on your list first. Delegate responsibilities at work and at home; others can almost always take some of the burden. Pace yourself, and don’t do so much in one area that you can’t be effective in another.
Get all the support you can from community resources. Take care of your own needs. Pay attention to your health. Eat right, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. Try to make time to enjoy yourself even when your schedule is packed. Fun is important.
Take a break when the pressure gets too great; even a short walk or a hot bath can help relieve the stress. Talk to someone about your feelings and needs: an employee assistance counsellor, a professional counsellor or a member of the clergy.
Consider talking to your supervisor or manager at work about your caregiving issues. It’s better for your boss to understand the reasons you’re coming in late or seem preoccupied than to let him draw his own conclusions. Chances are that your company will appreciate your honesty and sense of responsibility towards your family and your job.
Be sure to thank those at work for the consideration and assistance you receive. To help someone else who has heavy family or other responsibilities, perhaps you could agree to take on an extra assignment or special project when you do have time.
Support for employee caregivers is becoming more widely available from employers and other community sources. Take advantage of whatever is available. It’s a way to bring balance to a hectic time of life.
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