1 Embrace Flexible Working
Being self-employed has enabled us both to choose our hours, for which we are extremely grateful. Whether you are employed, or self-employed, it is important to negotiate hours that work for you, your family, health and well-being. People may believe that more time spent at work equates to greater productivity. If people are burnt out, and come into work for long hours, it is unlikely they will be as productive: employers merely get “presenteeism” from their teams.
Working from home, avoiding lengthy commutes and working compressed hours - or extended hours over fewer days - might dovetail better with any childcare arrangements or hospital appointments. Time your annual leave for when it will be most beneficial and provide rest and restoration.
Ask your employer if you can use sick leave or other types of leave, such as time off in lieu (TOIL) for hospital appointments. Do not feel guilty: take all the accrued annual leave you have after
