Having a family and a career are two huge commitments, but you don’t have to sacrifice one to have the other. Though it may be difficult and take some effort on your part, managing and balancing both your work and your children is possible. Work Mindset When you leave work, you should strive to leave all thoughts of your job there. This can be a challenge if your work often entails bringing projects home or if you feel inclined to consider additional ideas or strategies after you go home. Taking time to review your work day before leaving can help you prepare to adjust for your time at home. Doing this can help you think more about your home, your family, and your life outside of work and allow you to enjoy your time with your children. Limit Distractions Spending quality time with your children is important for their growth and development, but in the digital age, such interactions are becoming rarer. You can try to set limitations for how much time is allowed on devices or in front of the television; instead, you can regularly play games, go to a park, or simply talk to your children. Ensuring the time you spend with them is as fulfilling and genuine as possible can help improve your relationships. In regards to distractions, you also need to audit your own technological engagement. Abstain from making phone calls, checking emails, or finishing work at home. Doing so will open up your availability to your children and show them that when you are home, you are there for them. Family Meals A sort of lost art, family meals can prove to be exceptionally beneficial for a family. From cooking together to eating together, the experience of having a meal with the family and engaging in conversation is an easy way to bond. If you come home after they’ve eaten dinner, establish a nightly snack routine. Before they go to bed, you can have small conversations about your day and enjoy each other’s company. Even when your time is limited, you can still form good relationships with your children and make the best of your availability. Flexibility Managing this won’t be possible with every work environment, but seeking opportunities to arrange flexible hours or alternative schedules could help you spend more time with your family. If you have opportunities to work from home, you can ensure you’re home by the time school ends or on days they aren’t in school. Some offices also allow for flexible work hours; if you are allowed to come in early and leave a few hours earlier than usual, you can give yourself more time in the evenings to spend with your family. Considering all your options and making the most use out of your work’s limitations on flexibility can help you maximize the quality time you spend with your children. This article was originally published at MichaelEParker.net