As a committed father and the provider for my family, I would have to say that sometimes work feels easier than family.  As a result of my nature to gravitate toward the easy side, in this case, work, I find it necessary to keep myself in check by remembering what’s truly important.

I am writing this as a blog because I understand that for family providers, this subject is one that falls into the taboo, we-don’t-talk-about-this category.

So let’s talk about it.  You know, I found that it was when I let the cat out of the bag and was honest with myself about what was going on, that I was freer to develop strategies that kept me on track.  If you find yourself reading this and identifying, then I suggest you do what I did and work out an alternative.

The struggle for me shows up in that little bit extra that could be done tomorrow but seems to get done today.  Things get monotonous or tedious with the family and work sounds more interesting or easy.  It’s noticing this that becomes my “flashing light.” It tells me to stick with it and reengage. I will often suggest a change in activity as well; one that I think might pull me back into the picture.

Time with family is unbelievably fulfilling, but sometimes it also feels like another form of work. The key is to not let that deter you from your duty as a parent to give your kids all that you are when you’re not at work.  If you feel yourself getting sucked in, the key is to get good at noticing first, and then developing a strategy that works for you to get back in the game of family.  Good Luck.