v-Fluence Blog

A Work Environment that Balances Long Hours and Love

Between busy work schedules and other obligations many couples struggle to find a balance between their careers and relationship. My partner, Lisa, and I face similar challenges and as we prepare to celebrate our eighth Valentine’s Day together I reflect on how working at v-Fluence has benefited our relationship.

When Lisa and I were dating in college, balancing our responsibilities with our relationship was easy. We kept each other company during late night study sessions, spent idle hours in between classes watching TV re-runs and played together on our university’s basketball team.

Once we graduated and secured full-time jobs, however, balancing the demands of our careers with our relationship proved more difficult. Suddenly we had to juggle individual 30-minute commutes to work, my volunteer work and Lisa’s part-time job coaching high school basketball with our relationship. Consequently, there were many days we would say goodbye at 6 a.m. and not see each other again until 9 p.m.

While there are many reasons Lisa and I are happy we decided to relocate to San Diego from Minnesota, my position with v-Fluence, and its flexible work environment and culture, has positively affected our career/relationship balance the most.

Because I work at home, I see Lisa more than I would if I had to commute to an office. We usually meet for lunch and those quick visits during the day keep our relationship healthy.

Additionally, while there are many days I work long hours, I am at home rather than at an office. Thus, I can still spend time with Lisa, even if that means sitting and working next to her on the couch while she reads or watches a movie.

Lastly, a huge benefit to our relationship is that my work station is mobile. For example, during the Chargers’ playoff run this past football season we were invited to our friend’s house to cheer on the Bolts. I was facing a deadline for work but wanted to spend time with Lisa and our friends. What to do? I compromised and brought my laptop with me. I made progress on my project and spent time with people who are important to me.

Finding a balance between careers and relationships is never easy but I feel extremely fortunate that v-Fluence places value on ensuring team members can spend time with their families. Because of this flexible working environment, the relationship Lisa and I share is as strong as it has ever been.

This Valentine’s Day, however, I’ll probably to turn the laptop off for awhile and treat her to a nice dinner—there have to be some boundaries, after all! * Your e-mail address is necessary only for our control
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