Conflicting work schedules can cause confusion and often alienation. Working extra or odd hours does bring in extra cash, however it can be hard on family life as you once knew it. You miss family affairs, holidays, vacations with friends and precious time with your spouse, etc. If you have children it can be worse yet. Finding time for family can be hard.

Couples working and living with alternate work shifts or simply working extra hours, know that "family time" is a precious commodity. Most people are working these hours because it is what must be done to pay the bills and to make life a little more pleasant for loved ones. You are making more money, however, you have less quality time to spend with your family.

If you are a two-career family or have conflicting work schedules the chances are that you see little of your spouse during the week and perhaps less on weekends. What can you do to keep your family and your relationship from splintering? You can find those valuable pockets of time for yourself and your family.

Finding Time. Add some pluses to your life:

+ Whatever your schedule is, find some quiet time for yourself. Don't take a quick shower, take a relaxing bath instead.

+ When you go to the supermarket, take some time to sit and have a cup of coffee.

+ Do whatever is necessary to find some time for just you and mate. It does not matter if it is an hour or 15 minutes, make it your time. Have a cup of coffee or a drink. Rub a back, hold a hand, become a sweetheart for those few minutes.

+ Everyday of the week, find some time for fun. Share a laugh.

+ At least once a week, find some real family time. Order out, play a game, bake cookies, do something that everyone enjoys.

+ Always find the time to leave quick "Thinking of you" notes. Buy some large post-it notes, leave them in the kitchen and keep a pen close by. Then start having some fun leaving notes. Put a love note in your children's lunch bags, put one in your mates brief case, pocket or purse. Anywhere they will be sure to see it later in the day. It will bring them a smile and gratitude. You may receive a much needed hug at the end of the day, you may even find love note when you least expect it.