A Recent Experience with Paternity Leave: Bonding, Balance, and Staying Connected

During parts of June and July, I had the incredible opportunity to take paternity leave to welcome my son into the world. As the Vice President of Ancillary Services at John Muir Health, balancing professional responsibilities with personal life has always been crucial, and this experience has underscored just how vital it is to prioritize family time.

Taking leave allowed me to bond with my son during those precious early weeks. From late-night diaper changes to early morning diaper changes, to all the other diaper changes in-between, every moment was a reminder of the enjoyment and responsibility that comes with parenthood. My short journey has been filled with sleepless nights, but each one has been worth it for the smiles, coos, and playtime! One thing I've learned: there's no such thing as having too many diapers in your bag.

To ensure I stayed connected with my team and stakeholders at work, I held "office hours" every Tuesday. These check-ins were invaluable, allowing me to maintain a pulse on ongoing projects and provide support where needed. I am incredibly grateful to my colleagues for their understanding and adaptability during this time. Their appreciation for these touchpoints made it clear that maintaining open lines of communication is essential, even when stepping back to focus on family.

Balancing the demands of an executive role with the needs of a newborn can be challenging, but it also offers a chance to reflect on what truly matters. Some of my thoughts for fellow senior leaders considering or currently on paternity leave:

Plan ahead: Ensure your team is well-prepared for your absence. Delegate responsibilities and trust in their abilities.

Stay connected but set boundaries: Office hours were a great way for me to stay in the loop without being constantly available.

Embrace the chaos: Parenthood is unpredictable. Flexibility and a good sense of humor are your best allies.

Prioritize family: Remember that this time is fleeting. Cherish every moment with your little one.  Those weeks went by fast!

Practice self-care: Amidst caring for a newborn and managing work responsibilities, don't forget to take care of yourself. Even a short walk or a quiet moment can make a big difference.

Seek support: My community was always texting, calling, or wanting to help in some way or another.  Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or colleagues. It takes a village to raise a child and to manage a career.

At John Muir Health , where working together as a team is embraced as a brand promise, this philosophy not only enriches our personal lives but also strengthens our professional community. By supporting each other in balancing work and family, we create a more compassionate and understanding workplace.

Reflecting on this fresh experience, I realize how vital it is for organizations to support parental leave for both mothers AND fathers. Promoting it and a healthy work-life balance shows a commitment to employee well-being. I am proud to be part of an organization that values and supports these important family moments.

This was an incredible experience that I will always cherish. It has reinforced my commitment to both my family and my work, confirming that with the right support and mindset, it is possible to thrive in both arenas. Here’s to celebrating the important moments in life and the wonderful people who make them even more memorable.

#PaternityLeave #WorkLifeBalance #FamilyFirst #Ohanaovereverything #Leadership