In a recent post, I reflected on how we make decisions about career or job moves based on where we are in our lifecycle. This is a reminder to myself and to you reading that what we do for work must ultimately serve our lives, not so the other way around. This firmly fits with the notion of a portfolio career - As Mr. (Charles) Handy once said, we will ALL 'be portfolio' at some point(s) in our lives. The question is whether it is by choice or necessity.
This week, I find myself as primary carer following an operation. It has framed conversations at work and beyond about how far we've come when it comes to the definition of 'dependents.' HR systems are still designed for leave implied as parental - however the (UK) government recognises different types of dependents and employees are entitled to as much leave as is needed; it need not be paid, and conversations are of course necessary about potential impact to one's ability to do their job.
There's a lot to be said about company culture when it comes to this sort of thing - you can go down the formal route, but there's also something to be said about true flexibility when needed. And values - if an organisational environment feels family oriented, even in a corporate setting, it probably is. I had a conversation with a family member earlier this year who works for a very well known company, who was considering a change in company but recognised what may seem 'cool' would also mean a trade off when it comes to family and their attitude to time off in this regard. The (work) team comes first.
The real positive about this is it leads to conversations - at home, at work, and in the community. All things that show what true values are. As I go into a period of what seems like paid and home work will rebalance my gift and study work, I'm grateful for the conversations it has started and deeper connections that will be created.
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