Suggestions for discussing thorny current events in the office

Work and life are closely intertwined. When health, family or financial situations become more complicated, your workplace can either add pressure or provide vital support. For our final week looking at practical checklists for the New Year, we’re focusing on getting clear about what help is available through your employer, and how you might make use of it.

Money and legal paperwork can feel intimidating, so it tends to get pushed down the list – until something happens and everything has to be done in a hurry. This week’s New Year life checklist is about three focused actions that can significantly reduce future stress for you and those around you.

Most of us hold more responsibility than we realise – for children, partners, parents, relatives or others who quietly depend on us. Things can feel far more stressful if someone suddenly has to step into our role without any guidance. Continuing our New Year series, this week focuses on a few practical steps to make things easier for the people who rely on you, and for the people who might one day need to help you.