New Delhi: Most people complain about long commutes. But for Racheal Kaur, the journey to work is truly extraordinary.
The Indian-origin mother of two flies five days a week from Penang to Kuala Lumpur for her job. She works as an Assistant Manager in Finance Operations at AirAsia in Malaysia.
A Unique Daily Routine
Kaur wakes up at 4 am, leaves home by 5 am, and catches a 6:30 am flight to Kuala Lumpur. By 7:45 am, she is at work. After finishing her job, she flies back home and reaches by 8 pm.
Despite traveling nearly 700 km daily, Kaur says this routine has improved her work-life balance. Earlier, she rented a home near her office and visited her family only once a week. Now, she gets to see her children every night.
Cost-Effective Choice
Surprisingly, flying daily has reduced her expenses. Earlier, she spent $474 per month on rent and other costs. Now, her travel costs are just $316 per month.
During flights, she enjoys listening to music and having some “me time.” She also prefers working from the office, as she finds it easier to complete tasks surrounded by colleagues.
Employer Support and Family Time
Her employer, AirAsia, supports her routine as it helps her maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Kaur admits waking up early is exhausting. But when she returns home and sees her children, all the tiredness disappears.
Many call her “crazy” for flying daily to work. But for Kaur, it’s a small price to pay to be with her family every day.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the advantages, the routine comes with challenges. Kaur must strictly follow her schedule to avoid missing flights. Any delays could disrupt her work and family time.
She also has to manage fatigue and ensure she gets enough rest. A disciplined routine and strong family support help her stay committed.
An Inspiration to Many
Kaur’s story has inspired many working parents who struggle to balance their jobs and family responsibilities. She proves that with determination and smart planning, even unconventional choices can work.
Her journey highlights the importance of prioritizing family while pursuing a successful career. Kaur’s experience is a testament to modern work-life balance possibilities, showing that sometimes, the road—or sky—to work is worth the effort.