It can be a tricky trying to balance family and career. Does one always have to take precedence over the other ? Well, it’s a common problem and truth of the matter is that we have to live with both if we want both to work.  Here are a few thoughts in the family and career debate.

TALK TO YOUR EMPLOYER

It is important to discuss with your employer about the adjustments you plan on making in regards to your work schedule. Broad-minded employers are willing to deal with temporary or permanent changes which may arise due to family conditions. Before approaching your employer on this request, it might be wise to find out whether they’ve handled a similar case in the past and what the upshot was. After finding out, write down a plan on how you are going to add value to the company, then present your request with the plan.

LOOK FOR A NEW JOB

Okay, it’s hardly the compromise option but if your current job is stressing you out and damaging your family connections it’s something to seriously consider.

WORK AND LEISURE CONFUSION

All work and no play is sometimes self-inflicted. You have to be honest with yourself in this regard. Are you really spending all that time on your computer because of work? Could you really not put something off or delegate it to another person? There are some odd working relationships where almost too much time is taken up with networking or idle chatter when the graft is put off and taken home. It shifts the balance in the wrong direction. So, take some time off to spend with the family and have a good honest think about what needs to change.

PLAN YOUR TIME WELL

A major problem with many people is the tendency towards procrastination. This leads to increased workload which in return gives you worry and stress. Consider a time management course or get yourself a decent self-help book.

SHARE THE LOAD

You can’t handle every responsibility by yourself even if it may seem like an easy thing to do. It is not always a bad idea to let your family and friends assist you with some responsibilities. This will make it easier in the short-term but you have to learn to let go. Perfectionism can turn in on itself and become something of an obsession. In these scenario’s everyone is a loser.

GET ADVICE

After exploring your options you may feel stuck. Sometimes we can’t see the wood for the trees and so it’s helpful to get the perspective of someone who isn’t caught up in your personal situation but who at least understand the conflicts you’re experiencing. A close friend or trusted colleague may be the kind of help you need.