by David Braybrooke

Created on: March 20, 2007   Last Updated: September 28, 2010

The demands on parents can be many and varied and it is no surprise that many an overworked mum or dad feels exhausted with their lot!  When one takes into account the number of parents in the workforce who have to pick up another shift at home when they return from earning a wage, it is no surprise that so many live lives of ongoing tiredness, usually the direct result of ineffective teamwork being employed.

The key to overcoming the problem of either partner becoming exhausted is to establish effective routines and job-sharing that emphasizes and utilizes a person's strengths.  It is important that each party makes a concerted effort to contribute equally in order not to leave the other member weighed down with duties and responsibilities.  Following is a short list of a few helpful teamwork suggestions that may improve the home-life dynamics and energy levels of hardworking parents:

Have clear routines for chores at home and a mutual understanding that the your partner will step in and help if unforeseen problems arise.  Partners need to support each other through hard times and this includes the sharing of home duties to take the strain off the one experiencing difficulties.  Contrary to some beliefs, children can be encouraged to help with the household chores in order to diminish the workload of tired parents.  Offering a small monetary incentive or other reward make work in some cases with the overall goal of being a greater amount of time and cleanliness for the whole family.

Some couples prefer to take the traditional roles when it comes to workload.  Women usually do the housework and the man will often work long hours in order to earn a wage and mow the lawn or fix the car on the weekend.  If this routine works then all well and good, however in order that neither partner becomes exhausted by strict routines it is important to share the work evenly.  To effectively establish teamwork in a partnership it helps to occasionally get away from it all now and again and have a refreshing break to enjoy each other's company.  This helps to freshen up a relationship and strengthens and inspires each partner to reconnect to one another and often encourages a deeper commitment and renewal of the 'team' unit.  A stronger connection leads to a greater teamwork effort.  Secondly, a break away will also ensure that people will be refreshed thus diminishing exhaustion.

Take time to regularly discuss goals together in order that both parties' values and future plans are in sync.  A shared vision will often provide great impetus and dedication in a partnership which can often improve teamwork and the general family environment.  Parents are often the most overworked members of an increasingly busy society and in order that they don't suffer complete burnout it helps if the family unit at home is a strong, supportive team.  Much exhaustion occurs when work schedules are not handled effectively or adequately simplified in order to cater fairly for each individual's efforts.  If you support one another and always do your fair share then everything will be attended to with time left over and teamwork shall operate at maximum levels.  And an added benefit is that effective, team-working partnerships lead to stronger family units and healthier community environments.

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