In this heartfelt narrative, Janine Leghissa shares her experience of balancing work and family during a significant family event. The story unfolds in Bali, where she traveled for her daughter's wedding. Running her own jewelry business, Janine initially struggled to disconnect from work, causing tension within the family. Through candid conversations with her children, especially her eldest son, she learned the importance of setting boundaries between professional responsibilities and quality family time. This realization has led to a new approach in planning future trips, emphasizing the need to be fully present with loved ones.
A Journey of Self-Discovery in Bali
In the tropical paradise of Bali, Janine Leghissa, a 59-year-old entrepreneur from Wollongong, Australia, embarked on a transformative journey. She had traveled to attend her daughter’s wedding, an event that promised precious moments with her three adult children. However, as the owner of a thriving jewelry and clothing business, Janine brought her laptop along, intending to manage light work duties. Despite setting initial rules to limit her engagement with work, these quickly unraveled under the pressure of constant communication with her team.
The wedding itself was a beautiful affair, but it was the days following that revealed deeper issues. As the rest of the family looked forward to spending quality time together, Janine found herself increasingly absorbed by work-related matters. Her eldest son, who works for her company, began to feel neglected, as did the rest of the family. This culminated in a heartfelt conversation where he expressed his disappointment, reminding her of the importance of being present for family.
Realizing the impact of her actions, Janine made a conscious decision to put away her laptop and immerse herself in the joy of family bonding. The change was immediate; tensions eased, and they enjoyed the remainder of their trip without distractions. This experience taught Janine a valuable lesson about prioritizing personal relationships over professional demands, leading her to establish clearer boundaries for future family vacations.
From a journalist's perspective, Janine’s story is a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between career and family life. It highlights the importance of setting clear boundaries and recognizing when to unplug from work, especially during significant family events. Her journey underscores the value of presence and connection, encouraging others to prioritize meaningful interactions over professional obligations. Ultimately, it serves as a poignant reflection on the choices we make and the impact they have on our most cherished relationships.