Le Village Cowork reposted this
There's this coworker that is making me feel INSANELY guilty. She's this ambitious 26 year old who can do all the things because her biggest obligation outside of work is her cat! Here's what happened... JK--It's me. Hi. I'm the problem. 👋 I WANT to work like I worked in my late 20's. I demand that I have the same output. I am my own worst coworker--and my #coworkerguilt is SO BAD. But it is impossible to work like I worked in that phase of my life because my life is not the same! In my recent podcast with Jess Feldt, we delve deep into the intricate web of emotions surrounding guilt in the workplace, particularly for those navigating the delicate balance between professional responsibilities and personal obligations. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion (scroll to the bottom for a link to the podcast!) 🔄 Shift in Identity: Returning to work after parenthood often means adapting to a new identity while grappling with the worry of falling short in either/both realms. 💡 Productive vs. Unproductive Guilt: Distinguishing between guilt that serves as a catalyst for personal growth and that which is merely a byproduct of societal or cultural expectations. 📊 Cultural Expectations: We need a paradigm shift towards a workplace culture that values balance and well-being. It's time to challenge the notion that productivity is synonymous with sacrificing personal fulfillment. 🔒 Setting Boundaries: Setting personal boundaries and reevaluating expectations emerged as vital strategies for combating feelings of guilt. 🌈 Visualizing the Ideal Life: We explored the power of periodically envisioning our ideal lives and identifying what is truly important to us. By aligning our actions with our true values and aspirations, we can alleviate the burden of guilt and cultivate a more fulfilling professional and personal life. A reminder-- You aren't that girl anymore. You are the WOMAN you worked so hard to be and that is better. 🫳🎤 🎧Podcast: https://lnkd.in/gGdhVuEi Blog: https://lnkd.in/gRVYfxDV
I gave a little listen, and me, too - three cats, no humans - but still the problem. This afternoon is the last of an 84-day cycle of giving my kitten, Lula, daily injections to eradicate FIP (google it; it's otherwise fatal). I have had to leave work early or take time away to get her to the vet or be home in time for the friend who stops in to help with an injection on her way home from work. My work from home days are always better because Lula tends to nap near my desk in the afternoon. But, when I am gone all day in the office, she is roaming around and thus harder to catch when I get home, and believe you me she KNOWS what is coming! Starting Monday my work-life balance will be more in sync again because Lula will no longer need so much care and attention. Those little humans just keep needing you, though, don't they. Let's eradicate the guilt and own where we are and the amazing contributions we can make regardless!
Hah! I see what you did there! Take a deep breath and release the unrealistic expectations! 😉
Advocate for Working Moms, Podcast Host, Founder of Le Village: Community-Coworking-Childcare.
4mo👋🏼