Dear Sally Column:
How can I get support from my family?

Dear Sally is a monthly feature of the Embracing Creativity ezine that will give you some practical suggestions for your questions on living a creative and inspired life.

Dear Sally,
How do I get support from my family for my creative outlets or things that I want to do?
Signed,
Support Needed

Dear Support,
It can be frustrating to feel like you are taking care of your family and home, and everybody else's needs but your own.

Sometimes it's our own assumptions that get in the way of taking some time out for ourselves. We might assume that our spouse or partner or kids would be upset if we take a night off to take a class or work on a project, without even asking them. Have you told them how important it is to you?

If someone knows that pursuing your interest(s) would make you happier, most of the time, they will want to help you make that possible.

Other times, it is simply a matter of logistics. Like figuring out who will take care of the kids or make dinner, etc. See if you can sit down and brainstorm some ideas and work out a deal that works for everyone. For example, maybe you pick up a take out dinner one evening a week so you don't have to cook or clean that night. Or let someone else take over your duties for a night or you could trade duties. Or what if you trade watching the kids or some errands with a neighbor.

If you look at your routines, is there something that can be eliminated or reduced?

What if you held a family meeting to explain what you want and ask for their help in coming up with some solutions?
Sally

P.S. Do you have a question you would like to see answered?  Email me