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Controlling Spill over from work to home
Jinny Hopp, Human Development Specialist, Jasper County, University of Missouri Extension
When working parents are tired and over stressed from work the spill over can influence their interactions with their family. Children are very sensitive to their parents’ moods. Children know when we are upset. They do not understand why and will often assume that they are the problem. Here are some tips to leave the stress at work and avoid spill over.
Decide what is reasonable for your work. Prioritize your
work, if you have a demanding supervisor have them help
you prioritize your work so that your load is
manageable. Be realistic about what you can accomplish
at work. Before the end of your work day spend a few
minutes clearing away unfinished business and determine
where you need to begin your next work day. Leave work
at work. Do not take it home mentally or physically. If
you work at home, designate an area as your work area
and leave work there.
Make a transition for yourself from work to home. Use
the time to mentally change gears. If music is relaxing
play some that you enjoy. Do any errands or chores
BEFORE you pick up the children. If your children are in
a child care which stays open later than your work this
may be the time of day you spend a few minutes alone to
recharge your batteries.
Create a “hello” ritual with your children. Young
children will enjoy a hug and kiss. Tell about a happy
event from your day. Focus on the kids. They need your
support for a successful transition from child care to
home.
Your attitude makes a world of difference for your
children. They need your reassurance that you are happy
to be their parent. No body can take the place of “MY
Mom” or “MY Dad”. Our children are counting on us to
show them in a thousand small ways what it takes to be a
happy and healthy human being.
When you arrive home have a routine. Perhaps everyone
changes into play clothes. Share a healthy snack. A
light snack will not spoil dinner but it will let you
prepare a meal without everyone hanging on to you in the
kitchen. Children might enjoy some quite time while you
prepare dinner or your family might be energized by
sharing an outdoor activity before you gather in for the
evening meal.
For more Information about Balancing work and family
visit
http://www.familiesandwork.org/.
Or see MU publication
GH6653 - Challenges and Choices: Time Effectiveness —
Prioritizing Your Time.
Last Updated 09/27/2007
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