For the better part of 26 years now, I’ve been a remote worker.
I got my first remote role in medical sales a few years after graduating from college in 1999. At the time, I’d never heard the term “remote work,” and I didn’t know anyone who actually did it.
I just knew that working from my home office was very convenient, and this setup could help me build a flexible schedule like I’d never had before.
I also really appreciated not having to commute to and from an office, which left me feeling like I had more hours in my day.
As long as I was able to complete my work well and on time, I was in the clear. I could step away for an appointment or errand during the day and just adjust the hours I was online instead of trying to take PTO.
Looking back, though, the biggest benefit of remote work was how it allowed me to be a more present father to my two daughters.
I didn’t feel like I had to choose between my kids and my job
My job’s flexibility meant I didn’t feel extra pressure to choose my work over my family or vice-versa — I could dedicate time to both without sacrificing one for the other.
I didn’t have to think twice before signing up to help with student field days or to see my kids’ projects at a school fair in the middle of the day. I could simply fit them into my schedule, then make up any work I needed to get done later.
It was especially nice being able to chaperone so many school field trips. I still remember the times my daughters and I spent together exploring museums and historic harbors.
When school was closed for holidays or canceled because of inclement weather, it was no big deal. I was already working from my home office, so I’d just get to spend extra time with my kids. If I needed to, I could finish my work after they went to bed.
Without a traffic-filled commute, I was always able to be home for family dinners. All of this only helped bring me and my daughters closer.
My kids are grown now, but I still reap the benefits of flexible, remote work
Although my two daughters are now adults, I still find immense value in having such a flexible schedule and no commute. Balancing my work and personal life feels easy when I can go to the gym or do laundry between meetings.
Plus, this freedom has made me feel more satisfied and motivated to work hard. I feel most engaged and driven to succeed in jobs where I know I’m trusted to manage my time wisely.
Remote jobs can vary in terms of flexibility, and this type of work isn’t for everyone, but I feel lucky to have had a career that gave me so many opportunities to be home and to be a present parent.
I think it’s a shame so many recent return-to-office mandates are putting these opportunities out of reach for others.
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