101 Tips for Telecommuters—Successfully Manage Your Work, Team, Technology and Family

39. Meeting the Challenge of Eldercare or Family Care

When unique or urgent family situations confront you, it's important to remember that while your job may provide extraordinary flexibility, it's still a job and you still have important work to do. The pressures of a demanding family situation may make it difficult to maintain the appropriate separation and focus you need. Additionally, you may face pressure and expectations from other family members who work in more traditional environments and who may have misperceptions about the degree of flexibility your work affords you. And while you may have done an admirable job of setting boundaries and ensuring that your work is respected (Tip 45), extenuating family circumstances can cause people ...