When I think of travel, I usually think of going some where on vacation. Unfortunately, I travel much more for work than pleasure. The instant I hear of a trip, I instantly start to feel guilty. First, I try to think about how my husband will react and then I think about how much I will miss my family. I should be used to it by now but I am not and I hope I never get used to it. I am lucky that I don’t travel more than once a month, but it is still difficult to leave and plan ahead for while I am gone. Here are some ideas to help ease business travel.
Take a picture of your family
On almost every trip that I have been on, I have been asked to show a picture of my kids to other coworkers. I have forgotten only twice and both times, I felt terrible. A picture is also important to look at if you are feeling blue. Most likely you will be very busy, hence there should be a reason why you went on a work trip in the first place, so hopefully it will go by fast and you will be home soon.
Plan a calling schedule
Make a call schedule with your family prior to leaving for your trip. It will provide something to look forward to for you and your kids. Your children need to know that you are accessible and still thinking of them. My older child does not understand why I travel and why she cannot come with me on the airplane. By calling her and asking her about her day, she feels that I am still there for her and part of her day.
Red-Eye
This tidbit may not work for all but I am sharing it because it works for me. By taking the red-eye, it shortens the trip and allows for more time to spend with your family or getting things done. I will always take a red-eye home instead of staying over and flying home in the morning. It can be difficult but I am rewarded when I get to see my kids sleeping soundly in their beds and be there in the morning when they wake up.
Child’s Friend
I saw a commercial where a father takes his child’s stuffed animal on a trip with him. He takes the stuffed animal to the places that he goes and then takes pictures of the stuffed animal. He then emails the photos back to his child. This is a great way to connect with your child and let him understand what you are doing.
Traveling can be required for your job and be part of your life. In an effort to make it easier for you and your family, try to make them part of your travel experience. Try to make them feel connected, Whether it is just calling regularly, taking pictures or showing them a postcard of where you went. Business trips come and go, it is how you balance them to make it positive for your family, you and then your career. Good luck to all moms (and dads) who travel for work and have families at home waiting for your return.
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