Before you join, prepare not only yourself, but also your family and home. It will make life on board easier.
Talk with your family
- Communication plan: agree when, on which app and at what time you will talk. Internet on board may be limited, so set expectations early.
- Emergency plan: share how you can be reached if something happens at home and the company's contact details.
- Future plan: talk about your leave dates and the return schedule together.
Home and money
- Set up automatic payment for bills.
- Tell someone you trust where important documents are.
- Leave a spare key and a list of emergency contacts.
- If necessary, give a limited and time-bound power of attorney.
If you have children
Create a routine for the time you are away: bedtime stories by phone, a shared notebook, video messages. Small but regular contact makes a big difference.
For yourself
- Take a photo of your family and a small keepsake.
- Mark your contract end date on the calendar together.
- Decide who you will turn to on hard days.
Separation can be hard, but a planned separation is easier to carry.