Kiddipedia
The COVID-19 pandemic has created an enormous shift in the way that we manage our work-life balance. The reinforcement of social distancing measures has led to an unprecedented increase in the remote workforce across a large range of businesses. The way in which every household will navigate these changes will vary, however it is important to consider some key points as you navigate the juggle of work and family during this time.
Stay informed, but not TOO informed
Remaining aware of COVID-19 developments can be important in helping you make decisions around your health and wellbeing, and that of your family. It is important, however, that you spend some time away from the saturated media coverage, as consuming large amounts of news may lead to unhelpful thinking and increased feelings of helplessness and anxiety. Look to reputable organisations and government sources for updates on COVID-19, and the latest recommendations and restrictions that have been implemented within your local area. The Perinatal Workplace Wellbeing Program (PWWP), funded by the WorkSafe WorkWell Mental Health Improvement Fund, has created a resources sheet linking to a number of useful organisations and websites that offer current information around health and safety, working from home, and financial support during this time.
Expectations
Expectations that you have of yourself and others may change, as may those of your family and colleagues. These expectations may be around expected work hours, who is responsible for caring for any younger children in the family during the ‘workday’, or may focus on how you expect to juggle general household tasks. Clearly communicate your needs and wants, while remembering that others in your household may also be making their own adjustments. Examine your current routines, and that of your family, and consider how these can be modified to better suit your changing needs and expectations. Work schedules and schooling routines may need to be adjusted to fit in with your ‘new norm’.
The juggle of work and family
The juggle of work and family can be difficult for the remote worker and others in the household. Creating a structured schedule (with some built in flexibility) and including others in this process may help you to better balance your work and personal commitments while also considering the needs of others in the home. Conflict may occur if other members of the household feel that their individual work and personal needs are not being considered, it is important to keep the lines of communication open.
Avoid burnout
Avoid burnout which can occur when you begin to feel overwhelmed, and emotionally drained. Burnout can cause feelings of irritability and changed sleeping patterns, contributing to feelings of physical and emotional exhaustion. Recognising the signs of burnout early can help minimise the risk of reaching a point where burnout will have an impact on your physical and mental health, as will good eating habits, a regular exercise routine, and self- care. Establish habits which are sustainable, and create boundaries that will allow you to disconnect from work when necessary.
Access supports
Access supports that are available to you, whether it be your family and friend network, or your wider social connections. A number of organisations can offer general advice and support, while financial assistance may be available to eligible families. Staying connected to your family, friends, and your wider community can help to prevent feelings of loneliness, where possible, maintain a level of social connection using phone and video calls. Sharing your experiences with others at this time, may make it easier to tolerate extended periods of enforced isolation.
For more tips and ideas about working from home with kids through COVID-19, take a look at an expanded resource “Transition to Home: What Do I Need To Know About Working from Home With Kids and Partners through COVID-19?”
Written by Rachell Bugeja, Project Administrator at Transitioning Well (www.transitioningwell.com.au)
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