Beyond my wildest dreams...

A day at the White House

I never imagined that I would be visiting the White House one day and actually be in the same room as President Obama and The First Lady.  Talk about a dynamic duo - what a thrill!  I was actually able to shake hands with Michelle Obama (many have asked if I washed my hands since that time).  She is not only articulate and charismatic, but as a professional business woman and mother, she is down-to-earth, authentic and the perfect role model to all of us – she is the real deal. 

The White House Forum was around workplace flexibility and for me, this is something near and dear to my heart.  Representing Deloitte as one of the thought-leaders in flexibility, we shared best practices with other leaders and it was great to see that both men and women want flexibility. Flexibility has now become a necessity and what our professionals expect, not a “nice to have” option.  For me personally, I have needed flexibility throughout my career – not only when our daughter was young. Today I need time for myself – just to relax and get refreshed.  I need time to think and not “do.”  Time seems more precious than ever.

Thanks to our President, flexibility has now reached the national agenda and is receiving well-deserved attention.  What a gift to all of us that our President and Mrs. Obama have raised this important issue – and how encouraging it is to hear that as a family they have experienced the same challenges, that we are not alone.

Barbara

By blogger Barbara Adachi, Deloitte LLP

Comments

[Agnieszka]

Hello Barbara,
Thank you for your cofession. It really moved me. I have two small beautiful daughters and I would like to be with them always in that kind of moments. Thank you for openning my heart and makes me more aware of their needs. It's wonderful to live for that kind of wonderful moments in our life.
Best Regards,
Agnieszka

[Mohammad Waheed]

Wow, I would agree, that must be one great experience you had.

[Emily]

What a great experience for you, Barbara! And, how great for Deloitte to have a “seat at the table”. I hope you were able to share your story and the interesting journey to your success. With regards to your comment about taking “time” for yourself and your family, I wholeheartedly agree and have long been a strong proponent for sabbaticals, which we implemented across the firm last year. Most of the people taking advantage of the program in my organization are men… to volunteer in South Africa researching lions, spend time with long-distance relatives, fish in Alaska… They return refreshed, very appreciative, and ready to navigate their careers with passion.