Work-Life Balance in a Modern Family

As society continues to progress, more women are making significant achievements in the workplace, becoming corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and filling key roles across industries. However, for many working women, balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities remains an ongoing challenge. Esther Ma, founder of PR Firm, Prestique, shares her own experience and strategies for modern women.

“The pressures and challenges female entrepreneurs face today are vastly different from when I started business in 1996,” Esther reflects. Back then, the work environment was much tougher, and women had far fewer resources to draw from. Esther founded her PR firm not just to meet market demand but also to gain more flexibility in balancing her professional life with family commitments.

Family First: Upholding Core Values

Since the early days of her entrepreneurial journey, no matter how hectic her work schedule became, Esther always made time for her family. “I didn’t have children at that time, so weekends were dedicated to my husband. That time was precious for us,” she says. Following her "Family First" philosophy, Esther continues to prioritise her family, even as her business flourishes. “No matter how busy work gets, I always ensure my family’s needs are never neglected,” she explains.

Family values are central to her life. Despite their differing personalities, Esther and her husband work together to maintain harmony at home, thanks to a clear division of responsibilities. “My husband handles the financial aspects, while I focus on the day-to-day family matters. Together, we ensure the stability and happiness of our household,” she says.

Esther also takes on the role of connecting families, organising activities for her children and hosting regular gatherings with both sets of parents. This strong commitment to family has helped her maintain a deep emotional bond with her loved ones, even while managing a busy career.

Rotational Thinking: A Unique Time Management Approach

To manage her busy life, Esther deploys a time management technique she calls “Rotational Thinking” to balance her multiple roles. “I prioritise tasks, shifting my focus between family, work, and personal needs, ensuring that each receives proper attention. For example, I’ll first take care of my daughter’s school matters and then shift my focus to business,” she explains. Esther compares this method to opening and closing drawers, i.e. handling one issue at a time before moving on to the next, ensuring that all aspects of her life are properly taken care of.

“This approach allows me to stay flexible and meet the varying demands of family and work,” she adds. Rotational thinking helps Esther remain clear-headed and organised, even when her schedule is packed.

The Double-Edged Sword of Modern Technology

With the rise of technology, tools like smartphones and email have become essential to both work and personal life, often blurring the boundaries between the two. “Technology has certainly made work more flexible, allowing you to manage tasks anytime, anywhere,” Esther acknowledges. But she also cautions that technology can make work hours extend endlessly, often cutting into time meant for family.

While work is important, setting clear boundaries is key to achieving long-term balance and success. “I try to manage my work pace so I have enough time to focus on my family and my personal life,” she says.

Empowerment and Confidence: How Women Can Thrive in Today’s World

For women trying to balance work and family, Esther advises them to first find their own rhythm. “Whether it’s financial management or life skills, women should have the ability to take control of their own lives,” she says. She encourages women to keep learning throughout their careers and take on leadership roles within their families, fostering growth in both areas. By investing in themselves and staying engaged, women can find the balance that works for them.

Esther has achieved a harmonious balance between her career and family. Her story reminds working women that no matter how tough the challenges, by adhering to core values, applying effective time management, and setting clear boundaries between work and home, it’s possible to succeed in both arenas.