Balancing Family & Research
Balancing family responsibilities while pursuing a demanding research career can be challenging but manageable with the right strategies. Here are some actionable insights to help maintain a healthy balance:
Set Clear Boundaries: Clearly define work and family time. Let your family know your work hours and try to stick to them. This helps in creating a structured environment where both work and family needs are met without significant overlap.
Prioritise Tasks: Identify and prioritise the most important tasks for both work and family. Use tools like to-do lists or digital planners to organise your day. This ensures that essential tasks are completed efficiently, leaving more time for family activities.
Involve Your Family: Communicate your research goals and challenges with your family. Involving them in your journey can promote understanding and support. They may even provide valuable insights or assistance with certain tasks.
Flexible Work Hours: If possible, arrange for flexible work hours. This allows you to adjust your schedule to accommodate family needs, such as attending a child's school event or managing household chores.
Delegate When Possible: Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks at home. Share responsibilities with your partner or older children. This not only lightens your load but also promotes a sense of teamwork and responsibility within the family.
Quality Over Quantity: Focus on spending quality time with your family rather than the quantity of time. Engage in meaningful activities that everyone enjoys, such as family dinners, game nights, or weekend outings. These moments help strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.
Use Technology Wisely: Use digital tools to stay organised and connected. Calendar apps can help manage schedules, while video calls can keep you connected with family members during long research days or travel to conferences.
Self-Care for All: Encourage self-care practices for everyone in the family. When each family member is taking care of their well-being, it creates a healthier, more supportive home environment. Lead by example by maintaining your own self-care routines.
Seek Support Systems: Build a network of support from extended family, friends, or community groups. This network can provide additional help and relieve some of the pressures of balancing work and family life.
Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on what’s working and what’s not in your balancing act. Be open to making adjustments to improve harmony between your work and family life. Flexibility and continuous improvement are key to maintaining a healthy balance.
By implementing these strategies, you can better manage the dual demands of family responsibilities and a rigorous research career. Remember, balancing these aspects is an ongoing process that requires patience, communication, and flexibility.
You can read Amanda’s publication on self-care as an Early Career researcher here:
