‘The only pressure is the one we put on ourselves’ – Senior HR Manager shares message to new parents

The struggle to achieve an adequate work-life balance is one most people will likely face at some point in their working lives – a struggle which is only heightened upon becoming a parent.

Matthew Psaila, Senior HR Manager at Baxter, shared his insight into finding that balance following the arrival of his son, Sam, three weeks ago.

Already a father to his daughter, Kay, Mr Psaila says that during this time, he had time “to reflect and think on how much we should be grateful for our work environment, colleagues, work processes.”

Having the support of his team meant he was able to enjoy much-needed time with the family, without having to worry about work, which prompted him to share “a message for the soon to be parents out there.”

“There is a transition that occurs within a person when they become a parent, there are new adjustments, learnings, and desires, so take time off, set priorities, plan and get organised,” he advises.

“Someone told me this today – there is no one chasing you, there is no deadline to realign your career goals, projects etc. No pressure, the only pressure is the one we put on ourselves.”

Mr Psaila adds that this is not only aimed at the stay-at-home parent. “Don’t let the so many gendered assumptions that exist around the roles of Mums and Dads, and the expectations about how parenthood may be, impact you. Do it your way, and no matter what, you will still be amazing parents!"

Sharing his gratitude for the support shown by his team over the past weeks, Mr Psaila added “I am so proud to work for a company which is so focused on its employees, their families and an overall work life balance supporter.”