Creating Memories Beyond Work

The Hidden Struggle of Caregiving

The struggle of caregiving is often hidden, unspoken, yet it shapes every aspect of my life. Former employers offered flexibility for those with children, but there was little support for those caring for loved ones. It was as if the idea that someone's illness might affect my work was too inconvenient to consider. But it never did. They didn’t know that while I was in the hospital, juggling medical decisions, I was also on my laptop, responding to urgent work emails, making sure mistakes were corrected. As a leader, I remained calm, listening to my team’s concerns, never revealing the weight I carried in silence.

With those struggles come sleepless nights—always anticipating the next emergency. But on those rare, quiet nights without alarms, appointments, or crises, I find myself treasuring the calm, however brief it may be.

I sometimes wonder how different my life would be if I had to continue focusing solely on my career. But then I remember, my career is not my life. I’ve been blessed to care for two of my loved ones, and I still care for one of them today.

The Privilege of Caregiving

A nurse once told me, "This is the happiest dementia patient I've ever met," referring to my mother-in-law. Knowing she felt joy, even in her final days, means everything to me. She passed away recently from advanced-stage dementia, and being there for her, holding her hand as she passed, was a privilege I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Losing her, along with my step-mother earlier this year, has been a bittersweet reminder of how precious and short life can be. These experiences have also reinforced what truly matters.

Looking back, I see the many holidays worked through and personal milestones sacrificed in pursuit of career success. But the real opportunity to build a meaningful life came later, through the gift of caring for my loved ones. And now, I wouldn’t choose anything different.

It's All About the Memories

Life is about creating great memories. It’s about the moments we share with those we love, the sacrifices we make that don’t always show up on a resume, and the legacy we leave behind. In the end, it’s not the titles we’ve held or the projects we’ve completed that define us. It’s the love and care we’ve given to others.

So, my question to you is this: What memories will you treasure? What legacy will you leave? Don’t let work consume your life. Please make time for what truly matters - sharing moments with the people you care about. ??