Balancing a busy job in the energy industry with being a good parent can be really tough, especially when you often have to work far away from home. As we celebrate Mother’s and Father’s Day in these two months, it’s a great time to explore how to handle both of these big responsibilities.
We’ve talked to our consultants who face the same challenges, and they’ve shared some helpful tips. These tips can make it easier to balance your career and parenthood , even when your job takes you miles away. Whether you’re on a distant site or at home, learn how to stay connected and handle both roles with confidence and ease.
Gerardo, who shares how maintaining a well-organized schedule helps him dedicate time to both his professional responsibilities and his loved ones:
Gerardo L.
Special Projects Counsellor, Mexico
“Being passionate about your job can easily fill all your hours, so it’s wise to keep a general agenda that covers all areas of your life.
When I’m at work, I’m fully focused on my tasks. But once I clock out, that time is reserved. It’s for my family and myself. I make space to chat with my wife, play with my daughters, and walk the dog. I also catch up on some reading. Additionally, it’s a time for personal reflection. I ask myself who in my family might need help, or if I’m the one needing support.
We also think about our direction as a family. It really just takes balance, courage, and proactive steps to make it all work.”
Ana emphasizes the profound impact of family as a core motivator behind our professional endeavors. She notes recent corporate culture shifts that view family as a source of encouragement, promoting balance over perfection.
Ana L.
Operations Administrtive Assistant, Mexico
I firmly believe that everything in this life has not only a reason to be but a reason why and that will always be the family.
Recently, companies have started to see the family not as a barrier but as a motivator. What drives us to strive for more, to seek better opportunities? It’s the well-being of our families.
Achieving this well-being means striving for balance, not perfection—balancing our goals with what we can realistically achieve, and what companies can offer us. This approach creates a win-win situation, allowing everyone to genuinely give their best.
Adina discusses her strategies for balancing motherhood with a demanding career, highlighting the importance of equilibrium and presence over perfection:
Adina T.
Recruitment Consultant, Romania
Balancing motherhood and a career is tough, but I’ve found that managing time wisely and setting realistic goals are key. I focus fully on the present, whether at work or with my children, to stay productive and engaged. Ultimately, maintaining this balance requires constant adjustment, flexibility, and clear communication. This approach has allowed me to handle both roles with more grace and fulfillment.
While the parents we’ve heard from share valuable insights into balancing work with their children. But the idea of care and responsibility doesn’t stop with people. Frederick reminds us that pets like his cat, Priss, are also integral family members, deserving of thoughtful care and consideration.
Frederick B.
Senior Nuclear Matter Expert, Canada
This is my first time away from home for many years. Having done some trips when I was in the military, I knew what to expect. You can talk things over with your spouse. But how do you tell your buddy! I made my wife promise she would spend quality time with Priss daily. She has been doing that for me. I still miss them both.
Frederick’s cat, Priss
Thank you to our consultants for sharing their valuable insights. We’d love to hear from you too—what are your strategies for career and parenthood balance in the energy industry?
