It's a Rollercoaster!
Fri Oct 21 2011- A Change in Routine
Returning to work involves a change to everyone’s routine. Spend time planning the details of your new routine. Look at what steps you can take to make the transition as smooth as possible, like reviewing your child care routine, plan your emergency care option and talk to your children and get them used to the idea that you will be going back to work.
Research has shown that children who know what to expect are better behaved.
- Stick to the Plan
Research has shown that children who know what to expect generally behave better, and sticking to a routine helps a child know what to expect. Providing structure will help your children to cope with changes going on around them.
- Get Organised
Organising things the night before a work day can help to make the morning less stressful. Layout clothes, prepare lunches and pack bags. This will give you that head start the next day.
Create a meal plan and freeze meals where possible so that you have a healthy meal ready to go on the days you work.
- Know Your Carers
Establishing a good relationship with those caring for your child can really help you manage your stress. It means that they are more likely to keep you informed of how your child is going, and you’re going to feel more comfortable asking questions or raising any concerns.
- Plan for when a child gets sick
Deciding in advance how you will deal with your child being sick can make it less stressful when it does happen. Decide who will stay home to look after your child whether it be yourself, a partner or someone you can call on in emergencies.
- Family Time
If you find that work is encroaching on the time you spend with your family try to plan some time each day or week for your family to do some fun activities and advise your work colleagues of your availability. This is a great way to manage everyone’s expectations and your stress to ensure that relationships, at home and work, stay on track.
It is important to remember to look after yourself. Go for a walk, catch up with a friend for coffee. A happy mum = a happy child.
- Me Time
Returning to work adds more responsibilities you already have as a Mum. It is important to remember to look after yourself. Commit to taking the time to relax and unwind – go for a walk, catch up with a friend for coffee, or go shopping. You may find that you will guilty about time out…don’t. Remind yourself that you being happy and healthy also benefits your child.
- Give yourself a break!
Mums are notorious for being tough on themselves. The feeling of not doing a good enough job at home whilst not being able to commit to work in the same way they were able to prior to having a child is prevalent amongst most Mums returning to work.
Even with the best planning and intentions, returning to work brings with it stress and anxiety, particularly in the early stages. Set yourself realistic expectations and remember that no one is perfect.
Artius Health has a team of dedicated Psychologists and other allied health professionals located in Ipswich, Goodna, Oxenford, Biggera Waters, Nerang, Southport, Palm Beach.
Call us today and talk to one of our professionals or visit us for more information on our Wellbeing Programs.
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