Lifestyle
How to Adapt When You’re Exhausted from Being Adaptable
by Mia Thompson
Updated: Jan. 25, 2022
Originally Published: Jan. 25, 2022
Who else is fed up with feeling drained? The only thing that has been consistent over the past two years is a complete lack of consistency. One day the kids are at school, and the next, they’re home for an extended period. You find yourself scrambling to adjust childcare arrangements and work schedules. It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin, and to be honest, I’m tired of being so adaptable.
Whether the children are unwell or there’s a staffing crisis, the relentless upheaval of plans changing at a moment’s notice has worn out both students and parents. To help us navigate these challenges, I consulted Dr. Emily Carter, a clinical psychologist and director of mental health services for HealthWell.
Embracing Flexibility
So, how can parents manage the frustration of constantly needing to be flexible? “Working from home can feel scattered. It’s tough to concentrate on any single task, especially when kids are involved,” Dr. Carter explained. “If you’re feeling anxious, irritable, or angry, it can be unsettling. The first step to coping is to recognize and name your feelings.”
Ah, survival! While it’s challenging for adults, it can be even more bewildering for little ones. Kids thrive on routine, making it a different challenge to ask them to be adaptable. Once we find some balance, how can we assist our children in doing the same?
“One of the key responsibilities of a parent, particularly with younger kids, is helping them understand their emotions,” she said. “Once they grasp what they’re feeling, you can create a safe space for them to express it. Ask them about their feelings—are they confused, frustrated, or sad? Helping them articulate their emotions is vital, no matter their age.”
Even when emotions are tough or negative, it’s crucial to empower children to acknowledge them rather than suppress them. Let’s be honest; even as adults, that can be a difficult task.
Navigating Work-Life Balance
Achieving work-life balance seems like a distant dream these days. The old narrative suggested that if you could be flexible enough, you could have it all. Is that just a myth, or can we take concrete steps to attain it? “Work-life balance might feel elusive, but it’s achievable by starting with identifying your priorities. Acknowledge your situation, understand the challenges, and validate your feelings,” Dr. Carter said. “Next, think of one thing within your control that you can change. It’s essential to avoid guilt and remain mindful to fully appreciate the benefits of your choices.”
Dr. Carter added, “Additionally, it’s crucial to establish boundaries with your employer and colleagues. If they are unaware of your needs regarding family time and personal well-being, they can’t offer support. Remote work means we’re bringing our whole selves to the job, including all the expected and unexpected challenges of being a working parent.”
The reality is that flexibility will remain a significant part of life moving forward. Processing feelings of frustration and agitation due to an ever-changing schedule will not only make life easier for you but also for everyone around you. For more insights, check out this blog post.
Summary
In a world where adaptability is essential, parents are facing unprecedented challenges as they juggle work and family life. Recognizing and naming emotions is critical for both adults and children. Establishing priorities and boundaries can help achieve a semblance of work-life balance, even amidst constant change. For further resources related to family planning and home insemination, visit this excellent guide and learn more from this authority on the topic.
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