Losing a loved one is one of life’s most catastrophic events, and it doesn’t discriminate. The event brings with it much emotional, financial, and even physical turmoil that must be assessed and dealt with. To do this, you shouldn’t carry on with life as-is. Doing so can suppress the healing that needs to happen. But how do you make time for this healing when you have a career you’re committed to? Here’s how to balance work and the recent loss of a loved one.
Let Your Work Know and Adjust Expectations
First, communicate with your work. You don’t need to divulge details, but you should let them know that you’ve experienced a loss and that your priorities have to temporarily shift. As a result, you might not be able to perform at your highest caliber. Emphasize that you are committed to your responsibilities but need additional understanding and support during this challenging period.
If you let your manager know this, they should make necessary adjustments to your workload or deadlines. They should also be able to support by directing you to the company’s resources for bereavement.
Take Bereavement Leave
As soon as you are able, take bereavement leave, which most companies offer. If yours doesn’t, then take time off regardless, paid or otherwise.
You shouldn’t push through your pain out of sheer obligation or desire to work. Though you might feel like you can continue on with life as normal, grief affects your brain in ways you must attend to.
Taking leave provides the space to process your feelings without the added stress of work obligations. You’ll have the freedom to seek closure, remember your loved one, and honor your personal journey of healing.
Seek Professional Support
Though your healing is internal, external support can accelerate it and provide comforting insight that you might not realize on your own. For example, grief counseling offers many benefits, one of which is helping you productively navigate the most overwhelming emotions you feel during this time.
Therapists and support groups can also be a great help. They can offer a safe space to express your emotions and learn coping strategies.
Don’t Rush Your Healing
Grieving is a deeply personal and lengthy journey, so don’t rush the process. Understand that healing takes time, and it’s okay to feel the full range of emotions before you arrive at a place of stability and acceptance.
Recognize that your productivity may fluctuate and be kind to yourself as you adapt. Acknowledge the days when you may need extra support or time to process your feelings. As you progress, remember that you should return to work after a bereavement only if you’re truly ready. If you jump back into your routine without feeling at peace about your loss, you set yourself up for long-term emotional turmoil.
Loss is devastating, so don’t make it more devasting by ignoring your emotional and physical needs during this time. Take leave, seek support, and be patient with yourself. In the end, you can balance work and the recent loss of a loved one by prioritizing yourself and your healing, returning to the job when you’re fully ready.