July 21st, 2023 marks my day entering teen age as a mother. I started on this adventure 13 years ago and over time became fearless!

Today, I recall my decision to go part time when my son was about a year old and I was also expecting my second child. Back then, working part time or remote was not a norm.

My motherhood guilt was super strong and I needed the time with my son before my daughter arrives. So, I decided to take the risk to go part time. My team at the time was pushing for a risky release and needed all hands on the deck. So, my manager could not let me work part time.

I decided to talk to my HR. I had no idea how to initiate the conversation and what is okay to share with HR. I was worried that it would give the impression that I am not serious about the work and may receive a low performance rating.

I was fortunate to be surrounded by good mentors like Scott Yost who helped me gain the confidence to talk to HR. His advice at the time was to showcase your strengths and good contribution you have made to the company’s success. At the same time, be transparent about your situation.

With that gathered courage, I sat in front of HR in a conference room and asked her if it is okay for me to look within the company for part time arrangement. She was supportive and helped me find a job-share. Job-share is where one headcount is divided into two part time roles and split the workload.

I was grateful to HR and team director Daniela Alexander to offer the arrangement. Among all the odds, I found what I was looking for!  I also learnt a valuable life lesson.

There are three steps for becoming fearless:

• It is okay to be different to follow your heart.
• Know your strengths and be vocal about it.
• Be courageous and take bold decisions.