Personal Parameters

This is the fifth of a series of articles for returners, people who want to return to the workplace after an extended period away from it.

Do you know how much you want or need to earn?

Have you calculated in any costs of childcare?

Have you considered the by-products of a career (more than a job)? Travel, long hours, taking work home, being on call 24/7, the stresses and pressures or exciting contrast with the mundane aspects of life?

We have already considered the logistics of being employed including the psychological aspects.

There may be feelings of guilt for “abandoning” the child(ren) or other people.

There may be discomfort at imposing on friends and relatives to absorb part of the role bringing up and keeping safe the kids or looking after infirm relatives.

There may be tensions with a partner who believes you should remain at home.

However, the greatest issue may be the one that work becomes the preferred place to be. It excites, it challenges, it gives clear successes, and it provides the intellectual stimulation not available at home. This does not say don’t go for it, it says be aware of it and make sure you find the fabulous balance that is available. Create the right environment to be successful in every aspect of your life and the lives of the people you love and those who employ you. In simple terms, be the best person you can be, but to achieve that you first have to describe what that person looks like.

In the next issue of Primary Times, we will discuss the processes for finding employment.

Work Horizons is an online membership site which gives you career coaching at a fraction of the cost of traditional support             https://app.workhorizons.com/