Sometimes we all need a little support, especially at the start of a new academic year, when new tasks and projects are put on our plates. Sometimes we get into habits that don’t actually help us in our work or in our lives. So now that we are in the flow of a new semester, how do we continue to find the activities and connection points that nourish us? How do we find the moments in our day that revive us rather than drain us? Many of us tend to believe that we “just don’t have time” to take breaks throughout the day, or that we will be more stressed if we don’t go-go-go all day long. The WorkLife Office is here to tell you that moments to recharge are exactly what will help keep your stress and overwhelm at bay. If you want some tips and tricks for better work-life fit, schedule a consultation with our office. Call (517) 353-1635 or email worklife@msu.edu.

The WorkLife Office also has several upcoming opportunities for learning strategies and skills for managing your work-life fit. For instance, at the upcoming Fatherhood Forum on September 28, 2018, you can learn new perspectives and practices for parenting. Then at the WorkLife Office Conference “Building Community in a Culture of Change” on October 16, 2018 you can gain new tools for building relationships and strengthening your foundation in a tumultuous climate of change.

As always, we offer Lunch ‘n Learn programs that cover a wide range of topics, from childcare options to exploring fun things to do at MSU, which can help you to feel steady in life and at work. We also provide professional development and networking opportunities through the Women’s Networking Association and the Academic Women’s Forum. There are many educational opportunities to help you navigate your personal life and career at Michigan State University.

And if you are new to the area, welcome! The WorkLife Office is running an experimental program called the International Newcomer Pilot Program which is designed to help with the transition of MSU faculty and academic specialists when moving to the community from a different country. Volunteers from the Alumni Association and the Retiree Association will be matched to a newcomer faculty or academic specialists to help the new family ease into their new life within the surrounding community. For more information, contact Hutchj@msu.edu.