My Journey to Achieving Work-Life Balance
My 'Second Self'
My Journey to Achieving Work-Life Balance – While finding My “Second Self”
Balancing Act: Navigating a Career While Raising a Family
I began my career as a software developer in the late 1980s. Since then, the fast-paced world of IT has evolved significantly. In development, deadlines are tight, and the pressure to deliver is constant, making it challenging to balance work and personal life.
As a professional with over 35 years of experience, I navigated this demanding field while raising a family, caring for aging parents, and battling burnout. My journey has taught me that it's not only possible to manage these responsibilities, but it’s critical to prioritize physical and mental well-being.
The Early Days
Over the years, I progressed through various developer-related roles while working for Property/Casualty Insurance Carriers. Each position brought new challenges and opportunities for growth. With increased technical responsibility, I also increased my overall responsibility by managing developers and coordinating work to enhance functionality. Mentoring my team and fostering their professional development was a rewarding aspect of this role. I encouraged them to see the bigger picture and understand the business context of their work.
Current Role: Changing Courses for My Benefit
After surpassing the milestone of 30 years in development roles for Insurance Carriers, I felt burnt out, even more so than when I was raising a family and managing the schedules of disciplined, goal-oriented, resilient, and socially adept children. Supporting online insurance systems and direct reports requires multitasking and managing conflicting demands. I’d honed those skills over my career.
I took pride in completing various certifications throughout my career that rounded out my skills. I had a lot of Property Casualty Insurance education, both formal and on the job. Additionally, I independently earned certifications in computer networks and project management, and I had been working on public speaking through Toastmasters International.
I knew I was all in for a big change. I wanted to continue to grow professionally. I knew I was ready to step out of my comfort zone. With my children grown and independent, it was time for me to focus on myself.
I considered changing both my career path and the type of company I worked for. The possibilities seemed endless, and I agonized over the direction to take. With many productive work years ahead, I needed to succeed. I sought confidence, satisfaction, and worth, along with a smooth transition and a better work-life balance.
How could I keep some aspects familiar but make a change that would really work for me? This was a critical decision - I transitioned into the consulting industry, continuing to focus on insurance. This allowed me to leverage both existing and newly developed skills, applying fresh perspectives to familiar technologies in service of our clients. By staying within the insurance domain, I eased the shift and avoided a complete culture shock, while expanding my capabilities in systems analysis. For the past 2½ years, I’ve been working on the business side, specializing in Business Analysis. During this time, I earned my ECBA certification, a globally recognized and well-respected credential in the field.
I haven’t looked back. I’m blending the old and the new skills and experiences just like the ingredients to a trusted recipe that always produces a satisfying dish.
My new employer emphasizes work-life balance. They support maintaining both mental and physical health. For real. It’s not just something that’s stated but never carried out. It’s a prominent aspect of the company’s interactions with us.
The Personal Side: Family, Caregiving, and Burnout
Balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities is a constant challenge. Raising children while caring for aging parents requires flexibility, resilience, and a strong support system. There were times when burnout seemed unavoidable. Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining your energy and focus. Taking breaks, accepting help, and sharing the work when possible, makes all the difference. Sometimes we think we must juggle it all or put that burden on ourselves to do everything. Prioritizing mental health is crucial for long-term success and well-being. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes you need to adjust your plans. Being flexible and adaptable can help you navigate unexpected challenges.
The Courage to Change
One of the most important lessons I have learned is that it's okay to change the course of your career. Whether it's for your physical health, mental well-being, or personal fulfillment, making a change can be empowering. My journey has shown that adaptability and willingness to embrace new opportunities are key to thriving in any field of work.
As Aristotle famously stated, ‘A friend is a second self.’ Far be it from me to redefine something stated by one of history’s most influential philosophers, but I decided it was time for me to become my own ‘second self.’
The Future Looks Bright: Inspiring the Next Generation
To all the professionals out there juggling multiple responsibilities—know that you are not alone. It is possible to build a successful career while raising a family and caring for loved ones, all while still making time to care for yourself.
My key advice: make decisions about job changes after doing due diligence on your new pursuit, and act on it while your findings are relevant and the job market is stable.
Embracing the Future with Confidence
As I look back on my journey, I realize that every challenge shaped me into the person I am today. Embracing change and prioritizing my well-being have enhanced both my professional and personal life. I am now more present, fulfilled, and confident in my ability to navigate whatever comes my way.
To those who are still navigating their path, remember that it's never too late to make a change. Whether it's a small adjustment or a significant career shift, trust in your ability to adapt and grow. Surround yourself with supportive people, seek out opportunities for growth, and never lose sight of your goals.
Your journey is unique. You must solve your personal equation. Make informed choices and believe in yourself.
Your journey to work-life balance is a testament to your resilience and determination. By sharing your experiences and lessons learned, you too can inspire others to take control of their own paths and find their own balance.
