It started when I was roughly 7/8 years old in a small town somewhere in J&K in early 80s. I was the only girl student in a class of 7 boys. I was received well – no questions on that. Except a few times when the so called ‘Majority Won’!
Later, I did almost everything that my big brother chose to do. So growing up I was mentally conditioned to believe that the world is my playground and I get to choose what I want to do and how I want to play out my life.
Now fast forward 20 years in the early 2000s, married me with a little one of my own, armed with a MBA and relevant work experience I found it frustratingly challenging to convince my prospective employers that as a young mother, who is also a trailing military spouse, I would be an asset (read that as permanent assent) to the organisation!
During interviews, I was quizzed on my next physical move, parenting skills, long term plans, time and commitment patterns and even my spouse’s future plans!
Fortunately, I did find organisations that were willing to back my career aspirations and help me grow as a professional; and leaders who were invested in my intellectual growth.
I am therefore enthralled to see campaigns for women returning to work and making a comeback. Simply because I have been there & done that!
There is a long way to go and we all know that. Let us break the bias that women after certain stages in their life lack in focus. Because truth be told, women are fiercely dedicated once they’re decided.
#breakthebias2022 is the theme this year and here’s how I did it :
1. Women #returningtowork was a dream way back in early 2000s, especially as a young mother.
I did it twice.
2. Women making a comeback after 40 and post sabbatical – next to impossible.
40 over 40 recognition says it all.
3. Trailing spouses cannot have a sustainable/ corporate career.
After more than a decade of flourishing as a corporate warrior, I am now an entrepreneur.
