The answer to this question varies for everyone but basically it’s the amount of time and focus you give your work versus other aspects of life. This is why at the beginning of this topic we said that a perfect work–life balance doesn’t exist!
Of course, many unpaid carers have to fit in paid work around their caring responsibilities, which makes achieving the perfect work–life balance even more of an impossible dream. Naturally, everyone’s priorities change depending on their circumstances and so the balance changes as well.
Allow about 20 minutes
Read and reflect on the case study below before answering the questions that follow.
Edward is a marketing manager for a children’s charity. He is not married and lives with his partner, Mark, who works as a self-employed IT consultant. Mark has been experiencing memory loss and mood swings for some time, which the couple thought was caused by stress, but he recently received the news that he had developed early onset dementia and that his condition would deteriorate rapidly. The couple know this will have a huge impact on the way they live their lives and want to be prepared for how they will manage, particularly the end-of-life care that Mark will need.
Edward loves his job and receives a lot of satisfaction from it. But he also wants to be able to care for Mark as his condition worsens and he needs regular care and support. They know things will be difficult for both of them but want to make the most of the time that remains to them in a positive way.
What steps can Edward and Mark take to adapt to the changes in their work–life balance and make sure they are still leading positive and fulfilling lives?
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