Career or children – do we still have to choose?

Many parents face the challenge of juggling work and family life. Achieving this balance is not just a personal issue; it determines whether individuals can reach their full potential in both personal and professional lives. Our Lithuanian colleagues Justina Girnienė and Arūnas Brazdeikis provide insights.

"People often talk about balancing career and family, but honestly, I think the key is me as a person. If I'm not doing well, there's no way I can give my all at work or at home," says Justina Girnienė, a life insurance broker manager at ERGO and mother of three. Her words reflect a reality many parents know: the constant juggling act between work and family can drain energy and leave one feeling inadequate in both areas.

For many parents, this balancing act is a daily challenge. They juggle between meetings, childcare, homework and their own career goals. However, work-life balance is not just a question of organisation – it determines whether people can develop their full potential in their private and professional lives.

Reconciliation is an individual matter and often varies from country to country. In this episode of our format ERGO #LifeStories, our colleagues Justina Girnienė and Arūnas Brazdeikis provide insights into their lives and explain how reconciliation can work at ERGO in Lithuania.

Balancing family and career – a global challenge?

Women, in particular, often sacrifice career opportunities and income by reducing working hours or taking a break altogether after childbirth. Without flexible working models, comprehensive childcare options, and a supportive corporate culture, it becomes challenging for parents to reconcile their professional and family obligations.

Balancing work and family life is not a nice-to-have, but a strategic success factor that is becoming increasingly important for companies. In the face of skills shortages and demographic change, how well companies respond to the needs of their employees will be crucial.

ERGO in Lithuania shows how compatibility is possible

“At ERGO, we take the life stages of all our employees into consideration and we understand and respect their different needs”, says Lina, a DEI* expert at ERGO. “We believe that parents should never have to choose between family and career. It is not only important for our employees – it also makes us stronger as a company.”

ERGO has therefore developed a range of measures and initiatives to support employees in their individual situations. "We need to create the right conditions and an inclusive environment that fosters trust and openness. This is not just a phrase, but an integral part of ERGO's culture.”

Work-life balance at ERGO in Lithuania: Insights into real life

And what does this integrated approach mean for ERGO employees?

Arūnas Brazdeikis is Head of Sales Support and a father of three. He says: “My wife and I both work full-time. It's not always easy, that's for sure. But with the right environment, both at work and at home, and clear priorities, I really believe it's possible".

Justina Girnienė, life insurance broker manager, recalls her pregnancy and the early months after giving birth: "When I became pregnant, I was happy but had many questions about balancing family and career. ERGO quickly eased my concerns. During maternity leave, I stayed connected with my colleagues, making me feel part of the team." Returning to work after parental leave was easier than expected: "On my return, ERGO supported me with flexible hours, mobile working, and even a play area for my children at the office. This made my transition much easier."

Justina values not only the support she receives in her daily work at ERGO but also the freedom to take care of herself. "As a person who is a mother and an employee, I appreciate what ERGO offers – like the motivation days, which are the additional days off where I can do whatever I want. These days help me to recharge my batteries and get things done."

A key factor in achieving work-life balance is the role of managers. Their responsibility extends beyond mere technical leadership. When managers promote reconciliation, it becomes part of the company culture. Arunas expresses, "I want to help create an environment where everyone feels welcome and no one thinks that family responsibilities could prevent them from having a successful career at ERGO. It's about finding a balance that works for everyone. My team knows that I'm there for them, whether it's about family or professional goals.”

Arunas sees himself as a role model for his team: “Managers are multipliers. When we set an example of how to balance family and career, we inspire others to follow the same path.”

Reconciliation requires a culture that supports and models it

Reconciliation between family and career is not a question of 'if' but 'how.' It’s not just about balancing work and family life; it’s about creating a sustainable, healthy, and attractive work environment where individuals can realize their full potential. It’s important to note that balancing work and family life is highly context-specific. This means that priorities and measures must be defined locally to address specific challenges effectively. For instance, work-life balance also includes other family responsibilities, such as caring for elderly or sick relatives.

*DEI = Diversity, Equity and Inclusion