Remote work is killing my work-life balance

8h ago·1 min read

Everyone says working from home is great for dads but for me it's the opposite. I can't turn it off. I'll be in a meeting with the kids in the background, or checking email after they go to bed, or taking calls during dinner. My wife is frustrated because it feels like I'm always working even when I'm home. I've tried setting boundaries but my company expects instant responses. Anyone figured out how to actually disconnect?

3 comments74 views

Comments(3)

VVictor R.New Dad8h ago

I feel this so hard. The thing is the laptop never closes, right? At least when I commuted I had 30 minutes to decompress before walking in the door. Now I'm just walking from the office to the kitchen and everyone expects I'm fully available. Still working on boundaries with my boss.

MMike R.New Dad5h ago

Have you tried actually closing the office door at a specific time? I know that sounds simple but I literally shut my laptop at 5:30 and move it to another room. Took a month to retrain everyone but now they know I'm done. Game changer for me.

KKevinNew Dadjust now

Man I get it but also you're home with the kids which is the dream for some of us. Maybe it's not about turning work off but building a better routine? Like when I have them on weekends I try to designate actual quality time instead of just being present but distracted.