How to Talk with Your Family
(even when you can't be with them)
When you're working hard, it's tough enough finding time to spend with your family. But if you work evenings, nights or a rotating shift, it can take extra effort just to talk with the people you care about the most. Try one or more of these tips to make the most of the time you spend with family and friends.
Remember that you are not alone. More than 21 million people in the United States are shift workers, and almost one-third of all working couples with children younger than 14 work split shifts.
Organize your time. Sit down each week to write down a family schedule and put it where everyone can see it. Figure out when you have “overlap” time — when everyone is home and awake — and save some of that time for each other.
Post a note. Designate one place to leave notes, messages and schoolwork. Try a bulletin board, a corner of the table, the refrigerator or a notebook where everyone writes and answers notes to each other.
Throw out traditional routines. Use overlap time to have a family meal, even if it isn’t a regular mealtime. Try to do chores or errands when you’re alone.
Decompress. When you get home from work, try to give yourself time alone, even if it’s only for a minute. Change out of your work clothes or take a short walk. If there’s something important to talk about, it will be easier after you’ve had a break; don’t wait until you’re about to go to sleep or ready to go back to work.
Listen. Sometimes people just need to be heard. Your schedule may be causing problems for your children. You don’t have to apologize for needing to work or sleep, but let your family know you think their feelings are important, too.
Set limits. It’s hard to say no — especially to your children — but be honest about what you can and cannot do. Give explanations, not excuses.
Be positive. Let your family know you care about them and appreciate them. You can’t tell them too often.
If you have something to say, send it to Worker’s Words, c/o Solidarity magazine, 8000 E. Jefferson, Detroit, MI 48214
