Nurturing a Child and Career; Remote Work as a Game-Changer for Working Parents

Meera Chikanbanjar, Structural Engineer and a Mother

“After 8 months following the delivery, reflecting on my journey, I acknowledge the immense impact the opportunity to work remotely has had on my life. Balancing motherhood and a professional career, especially during the initial months, presented its challenges. However, the flexibility to work from home continued to be a game-changer. Being able to witness and actively participate in my child’s early development while continuing to contribute professionally was truly a blessing.

The transition back into work after maternity leave was seamless, primarily because I had been working remotely for 10 months, including the last two months of my pregnancy. It provided me with a gradual and less stressful reintegration into the working environment. This continuity in my work routine significantly contributed to my work-life balance. I felt I didn’t miss out on my career growth while nurturing and being there for my child during those crucial early months.

The remote work setup allowed me to maintain productivity but also fostered a deeper connection with my team and the company. The trust and support from ESS in accommodating remote work needs continued to reaffirm my belief in the importance of work flexibility, especially for working mothers.

As my child grew, the ability to adjust my work hours to suit my family’s needs became invaluable. It was during these months that I realized the long-term benefits of remote work. It provided me with the freedom to adapt my work schedule around my child’s routines and milestones, enabling me to be present for those precious moments while excelling in my professional responsibilities.

Looking back, I am immensely grateful for the chance to work remotely at ESS during the last two months of my pregnancy and the following 8 months. This experience has not only shaped my approach to work but has also reinforced the belief that a supportive work environment can influence working mothers’ success. I feel privileged to be part of a company that understands and values the needs of working parents, allowing us to thrive in both our professional and personal lives.”