“Everything I do is part of my life. We should be able to enjoy it all equally regardless of if it is 'work' or 'play'. I believe that if you are supported at work and home, then it is possible to have both fulfilling work life and fulfilling personal life. I believe that the two depend on each other. My grounding, confidence, and achievements in one area improve the other areas of my life,” says Jo Cook, Senior Professional Representative. Claudia Landgraf, Quality Control Manager, shares the same idea. “It is hard to say that my background comes only from my professional work or my personal life. All that I learn have an impact on my life.”

And having a supportive culture is essential to achieving the right balance. "I think working at an organization that fundamentally trusts its people and recognizes that we all have lives outside of work and that, sometimes, those personal commitments may need to take priority is brilliant. It goes both ways,” says Brian Christie, HR Business Partner.

Parambir Bhangu, External Innovation & Emerging Science Executive Director, brings us a great tip and reflection. “Naturally, we all seek balance in our lives. My goal is to achieve a 'rhythm' that respects the ebbs and flows of the dynamic work and home environments, such that I am making good choices and meeting both my family and career goals. A great measure of this is my own happiness and that of my family!”

Hope you have enjoyed the read! See you in the next – and last – article!