Juggling family and work is a huge challenge, especially in recovery. The best thing you can do for yourself is to learn how to balance everything and take it in stride. There is no way to achieve perfect balance as life ebbs and flows. The concept of recovery focuses on teaching you tools to help you juggle these ups and downs so you feel less overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you get started on everything from time management to balancing career advancement with family life.
Forget Super(wo)man
Unless you are a true blue superhero, chances are you cannot do everything all at once. Set realistic expectations. If you find time for work, family, and friends, that is great. However, many struggle to balance that with treatment and recovery. Be realistic and don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
Take it Easy
Try not to take more on than you can handle in this season. Don’t sign up for extracurricular sports, extra work at the office or start a new hobby. You may want to do more than your schedule allows and find yourself quickly burnt out. This schedule is not forever and will soon leave you with more time for things you will enjoy.
Make a Budget
Live like you’re on a budget. Everyone gets 24 hours a day, so use the time wisely. Sit down and write a schedule as you consider your commitments.
Pare Down
Once a schedule is made up, decide what stays and what goes. Family, work, and sobriety are the top three priorities; no exceptions. Don’t overschedule and add to your stress right now. There will be a time and place to add things back in later.
Write it Out
Saying you will make it to a support group meeting is different than putting it on your schedule like a dentist appointment or conference. It’s a commitment.
Hands on Deck
Enlist help from family and friends. Delegate responsibilities and pitch in to help where you can but free up time for self care.
Ask for Help
If you haven’t learned anything in rehab, it’s that juggling it all takes work. Reduce workloads at home and work, network with parents for kids’ rides to activities and stop church or organizational work for now. Putting some things on the back burner now will help you come back fresh and ready to go later.
Oceanfront can help you focus on getting addiction out of your system. If you are struggling to deal with all the ups and downs of addiction, we will help you regroup and refocus your energy on recovery. Our services and treatment program help you recover so you can do what will bring more joy and peace. Sobriety is just a phone call away: 877-279-1777
