Finding Balance and Community as a Caregiver: A Path to Joy

Returning to work after having a child is a challenge many caregivers face. But when your career demands the same energy as raising a family, how do you find balance without losing yourself in the process?

In May, I returned to work after welcoming my third child. While I appreciate the flexibility of working remotely, I’ve encountered moments of deep isolation and times when I’ve felt undervalued. The transition back to work, coupled with caregiving, has been anything but easy.

Caregiving demands your full attention, often leaving little room for anything else. The initial overwhelm of trying to juggle both roles was followed by frustration—frustration that I couldn’t operate at the same level as before. Then came the fear: the fear of being perceived as less capable, the fear that sharing my struggles could lead to unfair biases. In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly treading water, trying to keep up.

And let’s not forget the exhaustion. Any caregiver who has faced sleepless nights knows how tough it is to function when you’re running on fumes. Sometimes, all you can do is laugh at the absurdity of it all—like the time I walked into a meeting with baby food on my shirt. We’ve all been there, right?

But beneath the humor lies a real need for connection and support. Building a community of people who understand your journey can make all the difference. If you’re a caregiver, I encourage you to seek out support through your company’s Employee Resource Group (ERG) or Community of Inclusion (COI). These groups offer a safe space to share experiences and gain support. If those resources aren’t available to you, there are other ways to find your community:

Tips for Finding Caregiver Communities:

• Search on LinkedIn: Use keywords like "caregivers," "working parents," "remote caregivers," or "parental support" in the LinkedIn search bar to find relevant groups near you. Join these groups to connect with others who share your experiences.
• Explore Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram host dedicated caregiver communities and support groups. Search for hashtags like #caregiversupport or #workingparents to discover these networks.
• Join Professional Networks: Organizations like the Caregiver Action Network and Family Caregiver Allianceoffer resources and forums where you can connect with other caregivers.

Beyond seeking support from others, I’ve found that creating outlets for your own joy is crucial. In the midst of juggling work and caregiving, I started a business making cheeseboards because it brings me joy and gives me a creative outlet. Through this venture, I connected with a community of other small business owners, many of whom also have families and full-time jobs. This has been a lifeline in combating the isolation I’ve felt.

It might seem like an odd time to start a business, but it’s been a source of joy and connection that I didn’t anticipate. It’s proof that even in the busiest seasons of life, finding something that nourishes your spirit can make all the difference.

These communities and outlets for joy can be invaluable. I recommend setting aside time each week to connect with someone from these groups or to engage in an activity that brings you happiness, even if it’s just a quick check-in. Regular touchpoints can keep you grounded and supported.

I’d like to share a personal experience that highlighted the power of vulnerability and community. After opening up about my struggles, someone I hadn’t worked with closely but had encountered in passing reached out to me. They scheduled a coffee chat, and that small gesture truly made my day. It reminded me that even in our busiest moments, a simple act of kindness can go a long way in lifting someone’s spirits.

Our day jobs take up a significant portion of our lives, and to find true success, we need to bring our whole selves to work. A community that has walked in or is walking in your shoes can make all the difference. So if you’re a caregiver, don’t hesitate to seek out those who understand your journey. And if you’re a leader or peer of a caregiver, take the time to genuinely check in. A 15-minute coffee chat via Zoom or a quick walk outside the office can make all the difference. Sometimes, just having someone listen—or even sit with you in comfortable silence—can be enough to recharge a caregiver’s spirit.

Before I close, I want to gently remind everyone to check their biases when it comes to caregiving. It’s easy to make assumptions, but before you climb the ladder of perception, seek clarity. For new parents returning to work, as I can personally attest, it’s hard enough to get back into the swing of things without also having to combat doubts about your capabilities.

Building community and finding joy in the little moments are what keep me going, and I hope this article helps others feel seen. Let’s make this journey together. Whether you’re a caregiver seeking support or someone who wants to help, reach out. Let’s build a community where we all thrive.

Warmly, Katie Williams