Often construction firms have been plagued by long work hours, with some employees and C-level executives working miles away from home. However, most of these have come to this realization, and they are redefining their work demands for more relaxed work schedules. Juggling between handling large-diameter steel pipes and driving heavy machinery, and managing worksite safety is not anything to take lightly.
All this can get overwhelming real quick that you sometimes find yourself so busy with work that you do not have time for your family members, let alone yourself. Typically, this signifies a strained work-life balance, one in which a lot of construction firm employees find themselves. As a result, some end up overly tired, and others fall into depression. Don’t be next.
Find the right work-life balance
You are there wondering how to find a balance between work and family. Typically, the first culprit always is your work habits. It, therefore, is best you started approaching work differently. Manage your working hours so that you do not get home when the kids are asleep or wake up early to leave before the children get up. Also, for a balanced work-family life:
1. Communicate with your employer about your work needs
Construction work can be quite demanding sometimes. Irrespectively, however, let your employer understand that you have family and other engagements. You can present to your employer alternative times that, as you determine, you’ll be available to clock your work quota.
Always let your employers know how addressing other issues that concern you will add up to your work productivity. Here, honesty and sincerity with your employer will help you recreate a work schedule that will benefit both you and the company.
2. Stay connected
Communication is a critical element in every relationship. Therefore, whether during the day or night shifts, always connect with your family whenever you are not around them. Take short breaks to video call your kids, and even sing them their favorite song. Inquire about their welfare from the adult that is taking care of your children while you are away.
The same applies to spouses. Sometimes, all they want is to hear your voice just to confirm that you are okay wherever you are.
3. Deliver the best at work.
Strictly follow a work ethic that works for you. Meet deadlines. Avoid gossip zones, unnecessary social media browsing, and employees who are out to waste your time chatting during work hours. That will leave you enough time after completing your assigned tasks to enjoy time with your family and friends. It will also save you from work spilling into the weekend.
That way, you will have ample time over the weekends to bond with the family. And, this is family time. So, do not carry your office phone with you or fill your family conversations with your work engagements during this time. Instead, encourage activities that will enhance family bonding.
Conclusion: Productivity also means you put yourself first
Set boundaries. Together with your employer, define times for handling all the “heavy-lifting” at work so you can also work on other areas of your life. Place your orders on time. Adhere to manufacturer and industry standards when installing those large-diameter steel pipes. Follow work health and safety regulations to the letter. In short, do all you can to ensure you save every hour you possibly can for personal time.
Your company needs you. So do your family. Most importantly, however, you need yourself to first be complete from the inside out to give 100% in all you do. So, find you first.
