Children are cranky, everybody’s hungry, unfinished homework needs to be supervised and the family needs to unwind.
Before leaving work:
• Have a ‘closing-down ritual’ during the last half hour
• Only begin jobs that are quick and easy to finish
• Make a ‘to-do’ list for the next day
• Tidy up your work space
Going home:
• When possible start and end work earlier (or later) to avoid rush-hour traffic
• Experiment with different routes
• Listen to music and switch your cell phone to silent
• Explore different modes of transport
At home:
• Make a habit of not taking (or making) business calls and switch off your laptop so that you can give your full attention to your family
• Don’t switch on the TV until the family have eaten together. Cuddle little ones in your lap for a bed-time story. Make time to listen to them.
Reference: Professor Mark Cropley (psychologist) ‘The Off Switch’
