How to stay productive at work during your fertility treatment

19 March 2024

Amy

5 ways to stay productive at work during stressful times in your treatment                           

We recognise the pressure IVF can put onto all aspects of your life, particularly your working life. Some patients choose to take time off work during treatment, some don’t have that option either because they’re worried it may have a negative impact on their career, their line manager won’t be supportive or for financial reasons. And some patients choose to work through their treatment by way of a distraction.

The following article has been designed to offer those who are working whilst having treatment, helpful tips as to how they can stay focused and productive, whilst managing the pressures of IVF, because we know – from experience – that balancing IVF and work is a huge deal. Be kind to yourself, manage expectations and take breaks when you need.

Over to Jen…

By Jen Elworthy, a career and fertility coach and expert.

At stressful times in your fertility journey, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and distracted, impacting your ability to do your job brilliantly. Perhaps you’re waiting for the clinic to call with news of your precious embryos, to find out when to trigger, or it’s the seemingly endless Two Week Wait. Or maybe you’re generally feeling stressed and distracted by your treatment and work is suffering.

Here are my top 5 tips to help ambitious women like you navigate these challenging, stressful times while maintaining productivity and focus in your career.

1. Accept your emotions

It’s normal to feel the way you do. When you accept whatever you’re feeling you’ll move away from how you think you ‘should’ feel, which will instantly leave you calmer.

2. Figure out what you need to stay focussed

Pay attention to your energy levels. I usually like to work in a bustling place, like an office or cafe, but there are times when I can’t cope with the noise and want some peace. Remember, you can always move if you need to.

3. Get to grips with time management techniques

There are loads of techniques but my favourite when I feel overwhelmed and stressed is to break tasks down into manageable steps. Having a plan really helps and I feel like I’ve achieved something, even if I don’t get through the whole list.

4. Ask for help

When I feel stressed or distracted I always ask for help. You don’t have to share details of why you feel like this, but it helps to have a co-working buddy or someone to have a coffee with.

5. Focus on the present

I know, I know, this is a hard one. Find three little things to be grateful for – a bird in the garden, a smile from a neighbour, your train being on time. It’s scientifically proven this will move you into a more positive, productive mindset.

Visit www.jenniferelworthy.com/freeresources to download the full guide on staying productive at work during stressful times which includes questions my coaching clients have found useful.

You’ll also find a guide to talking to your line manager about what you’re going through, and securing the support you need.