Tradie wellness coach Aaron Huey talks through stress management for tradesmen who are parents, focused on leaving work stress at work and keeping it from affecting their loved ones at home.
Q: “How can I avoid bringing work stress home to my family?”
A: One helpful approach is to create a short routine to mentally switch from work mode to home mode. This could be listening to calming music on the way home, taking a few minutes to decompress in the car, or even going for a quick walk before heading inside.
This small buffer can help you process the day and shift gears so that when you step through the door, you’re more relaxed and ready to connect with your family.
Q: “What can I do if I feel overwhelmed by work stress but don’t want to take it out on my loved ones?”
A: It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times, but acknowledging this feeling can be a big first step. Try to find a healthy outlet to process stress, whether it’s exercising, talking to a friend, or journaling about your day. These methods help release stress in a constructive way, which makes it less likely you’ll unintentionally take it out on the people around you.
Q: “I find myself getting short-tempered with my kids after a tough day at work. How can I manage this?”
A: If you notice this happening, it might be helpful to build a short relaxation routine after work. Even just five minutes of deep breathing or stretching can help calm your nervous system and reduce irritability. Another tip is to remind yourself that your kids are excited to see you and have no idea how tough your day was. Taking a few moments to reset before engaging with them can make a big difference.
Q: “Are there any quick techniques I can use to lower stress before I go home to my family?”
A: Yes, there are a few techniques you can use, even on the job site, to help lower stress. Try deep breathing exercises, where you inhale for four seconds, hold for four, and exhale for six. Doing this a few times can help you feel calmer and more grounded. You could also mentally list a few things you’re grateful for, which can shift your focus to the positives before you head home.
Q: “What if work stress is making it hard to enjoy time with my family even after I’ve left the job site?”
A: Sometimes, stress can linger, making it hard to fully relax even when you’re at home. In this case, it can be helpful to set aside a short time to ‘vent’ or talk through your day with someone you trust, like a friend or partner. If this isn’t possible, try doing an activity with your family that makes you feel present, like playing with your kids, going for a walk, or having a quiet moment with your partner. These can all help shift your focus and lift your mood.
You can find out more on Instagram @aaron_wd_huey
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