Self-Care and the Working Parent
Why it’s important to take care of yourself.
by Daisy Dowling, Series Editor
Look at How You Spend Your Time
1. Give Yourself Permission to Recharge
To care for your children, you need to care for yourself.
by Elizabeth Grace Saunders
2. Working Dads Need “Me Time,” Too
They’re just as likely to put everyone else first.
by Alyssa F. Westring and Stewart D. Friedman
3. Does Your Schedule Reflect Your Values?
Organize your time around what’s important to you.
by Elizabeth Grace Saunders
4. Six Ways to Weave Self-Care into Your Workday
Tiny changes to your routine can make a big difference.
by Amy Jen Su
5. Do More by Doing Less (at Home and at Work)
An exercise to identify unnecessary tasks.
by Kate Northrup
6. Four Conversations Every Overwhelmed Working Parent Should Have
With yourself, at work, and at home.
by Joseph Grenny and Brittney Maxfield
7. What’s a Working Dad to Do?
Signal your family commitments to your coworkers.
by Scott Behson
8. How to Communicate Your Self-Care Needs to Your Partner
Tips for a calm, thoughtful discussion.
by Jackie Coleman
9. Too Much to Do? Here’s How to Ask for Help
Get the support you need.
by Heidi Grant
Check Your Mental and Emotional Health
10. Stop Feeling Guilty About What You Can’t Get Done
Practice self-compassion—and acceptance.
by Art Markman
11. How to Refuel When You’re Feeling Emotionally Drained
Replenish your energy.
by Monique Valcour
It’s OK to drop the ball sometimes.
by Alice Boyes
13. How Busy Working Parents Can Make Time for Mindfulness
During coffee, meal prep, or your commute.
by Michelle Gale
Prioritize Physical Well-Being
14. How Regular Exercise Helps You Balance Work and Family
It decreases stress and increases self-efficacy.
by Russell Clayton
15. Find Exercise in Life’s Margins
Every little bit counts.
by Nick Crocker
16. How Working Parents Can Prioritize Sleep
Habits to follow when it feels like you don’t have the time.
by Amie M. Gordon and Christopher M. Barnes
17. Parents, Take Your Sick Days
Don’t be a martyr.
by Tim Sullivan
18. The Case for Having Hobbies
They let you relax, learn, and connect with others.
by Scott Behson
19. Make Friendships a Part of Your Routine
Spend time together through shared experiences.
by Neal J. Roese and Kyle S. H. Dobson
20. How to Get the Most Out of a Day Off
Take a break from the day-to-day.
by Elizabeth Grace Saunders
21. Get in the Right State of Mind for Vacation
Unplug, be present, and have fun.
by Alexander Caillet, Jeremy Hirshberg, and Stefano Petti
22. It’s Not Selfish to Take Care of Yourself
Test it for a month. See how you feel.
by Stewart D. Friedman
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