No matter why you became a stay-at-home parent, odds are you may want to go back to work eventually. Kids grow up and develop independence, and suddenly the idea of bringing in extra money and building a career starts feeling insistent. Re-entering the workplace can be an intimidating move, however. After all, long gaps don’t just make your resume feel weak; they can make you feel a little weak, too. Here are a few tips courtesy of Jobbinghood for how to succeed while entering this next stage of your life.
Focus on Self-Care
Let’s put it plainly: going back to school and/or work is hard. Not only are you learning new things and putting yourself out there, but you’re also letting go of an entirely different schedule, lifestyle, and set of priorities. It’s only natural that you’ll experience some stress and anxiety as you go.
That’s why it’s so important to focus on self-care while you make this transition. Be sure to drink plenty of water, maintain a good diet, and exercise regularly. It might be hard to fit into a busy schedule, but it’s worth prioritizing. Another way you can reduce stress is to keep a clean and organized home, as clutter can promote a negative mindset, which inevitably leads to tension.
One of the more convenient aspects of modern-day technology is the fact that you can accomplish many educational goals at home. Online universities make going back to school easy and hassle-free by allowing you to complete the work on your own schedule. This can make going back to school a little less stressful on you and the family.
Seek Resources
If you’re feeling overwhelmed in your new environment, don’t be afraid to look for help from the people around you. Start by turning to friends and family and see if there’s any way they can support you. For example, your partner or kids may be able to take on a little extra work around the house so you have more time to study.
Try to think about what you need before you start the conversation; after all, they’re not psychic, so they won’t necessarily be able to come up with ideas that support you properly. If you can swing it, consider hiring out for help, particularly if you have a small business and are working from home. For example, a virtual receptionist might be just the ticket to making your life run a bit more smoothly.
You should also reach out to your school or company to see if there are any resources that can help you thrive. For example, many colleges offer tutoring centers or study groups for people who are struggling to get course material to stick. Workplaces may be able to help you figure out an ideal schedule or workload, or help guide your transition. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, for not only will it help you to thrive, but also it will show how much it matters to you.
Set Goals
Goal-setting is a vital aspect of success in any endeavor. To that end, you should take some time to set and evaluate your goals as you go. Start by thinking about exactly what you want to achieve. Is your ultimate goal more money? A fulfilling career? Changing the world? If it’s several things at once, think about whether or not they contradict one another. For example, the most fulfilling careers aren’t always the highest paying ones. Figure out which aspects matter to you most.
Once you’ve decided on your direction, use this resume template to help you stand out when applying for jobs. It can feel overwhelming to re-enter the workforce, but having an attractive resume can help you draw the attention of hiring managers. And be sure to search for your new job on Jobbinghood.
Dream big while setting goals—it will take you further. If you’re ready to dive back into the workforce, you deserve to take it by storm, whatever that means for you. Give it your all, and give yourself the tools you need to do your best along the way.
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