What do you do if you need to build a supportive network of colleagues to maintain work-life balance?

When I need to build a support network to balance my personal and professional life, I turn to my colleagues within the faculty. ?? First, I identify like-minded individuals who understand the challenges of academia. Then, I reach out to them, suggesting coffee breaks or lunch meetings to chat about our experiences and share advice. Together, we can brainstorm strategies to maintain a healthy work-life balance and support each other through the ups and downs of university life. With a strong network of allies by my side, I feel more confident in facing whatever challenges come my way! #SupportSquad ??????????

Creating a network of colleagues at work begins by identifying potential allies within the school. Look for colleagues who share similar values and priorities regarding work-life balance. These individuals may be in different departments or grade levels, providing diverse perspectives. Engage in conversations during breaks or staff meetings to assess who might be receptive to forming a support network. Remember, these connections are not only about professional development but also about personal support.

Maybe the first step is just to be curious. Ask colleagues how they manage marking, reporting or preparation tasks. Ask what strategies they use to make the cut off between work and home or social life. Ask what they would need to manage work life balance better. By being curious and non-judgemental, we can collate a range of strategies and at the same time, open channels of communication to talk freely about these topics.

Facilitating open dialogue is crucial once you've identified potential allies. Establish a safe space where discussions about work-life balance can take place openly, free from judgment. This could entail organizing regular meetings or setting up a group chat for open communication. The goal is to cultivate an environment of trust and camaraderie, where members feel at ease sharing their experiences and offering advice.

This is probably one of the most challenging for a lot of teachers. Whether it’s gently refusing a last-minute demand, taking a phonecall at 9pm or saying no to an invitation to join others for an afterwork event, the key lies in knowing your reasons for saying “no”. If you can articulate to yourself the rational benefits of refusing - your right to disconnect, gaining needed rest or prioritising healthier or more rewarding activities, then a calm “no” is enough.

Sharing is caring. Together we can go far away so I always share whatever I get with my colleagues. We have a very good networking because of these Sharing. Ultimately everyone together will be benefitting and in return it is advantageous to students.

Having supportive colleagues is a dream come true. I am with my colleagues for more time than my family. Celebrating each others success and holding hands in difficulties makes these relations stronger. The feeling of having your colleagues with you in your success, motivates you a lot.

Turning up to see your music teacher colleague’s samba band in a weekend festival. Buying a print from your colleague who likes to paint or take photographs. Even asking about the family milestones of exams, promotions, concert performances, weddings, house moves, these all count. If we can find ways to be present for our colleagues as whole people with a life and priorities outside as well as inside work, we help to create that sense of belonging.