Working, caring and making time for you!

There are many advantages to working and caring. For instance, gaining a sense of confidence and time away from the home or caring role, socialising with colleagues, improvements to finances. But the more we do and the more pressure we face, without enough support we are likely to burn out. So how do we balance our caring role with working life, and take care of ourselves along the way?

• Know your worth and bring that knowledge to the workplace and your caring role – we can sometimes forget the attributes and skills we possess, especially those gained through caring for someone else. If you need a boost, write a list of your skills and positive attributes and refer back to your list when you need a lift.

• Write a to do list for the week ahead and apply the 4 P’s:

  • Problem solve (what can you solve quickly e.g. need some shopping – book a delivery)

  • Plan – break big tasks down and plan when to do important tasks, remember to ask for help where possible and plan time for self-care,

  • Prioritise -  what can you take off your list and what is most urgent?

  • Pace - spread out tasks during the week so that you don’t get overwhelmed, celebrate any progress and be kind to yourself along the way.

• Consider working from home or requesting flexible hours to manage your work around your caring responsibilities. Carer’s UK have a helpful factsheet on Carer’s rights in employment.

  
  

• Build self-care into your routines - if you work away from your home you could use your lunch break and commute to have some much needed time to yourself. For example, listening to your favourite podcast, writing in a journal, having a chat with a friend, reading a book, practising relaxation and breathing exercises.

  
  

• Understand the benefits of your employment, some employers have wellbeing support built in, for instance free counselling sessions, a cycle to work scheme or discounts in certain shops or gyms. These benefits can be good for your wellbeing.

  Remember to check out the wellbeing activities offered at Sutton Carer’s Centre too.