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When Ashwini Thamke, an Indian professional based in the Netherlands, suddenly found herself needing to rush back to India because of a medical crisis in her family, she prepared for the familiar anxiety that often comes with informing one’s employer. Expecting difficult questions or reluctant approval, she gathered the courage to explain her situation at work. What followed, however, was an experience that completely caught her off guard.
Thamke later shared the incident on Instagram, explaining that she reached out to her manager to discuss the possibility of continuing her work remotely from Mumbai for a short period. Rather than being met with hesitation or subtle pressure, her request was received with unexpected empathy and understanding.
She explained that the trip had to be planned at the very last moment due to the seriousness of the situation at home. After informing both her team and her manager about the emergency, she asked whether working from India would be acceptable under the circumstances. The reply she received, she said, was deeply reassuring and full of compassion.
Her manager not only gave her the option to work remotely if she felt capable but also encouraged her to take time off without any guilt. The emphasis, she noted, was placed squarely on her well-being and her family’s needs, with work taking a clear back seat during a personal crisis.
"You can work from Mumbai if you’re able to. Feel free to take leave. And please don’t stress — family comes first,” he said.
Reflecting on the interaction, Thamke highlighted how unfamiliar such a response felt to her. She pointed out that in many Indian workplaces, employees often struggle with asking for leave during emergencies, fearing judgment or professional consequences. Coming from that background, the kindness and trust shown by her Dutch manager felt almost unreal.
She went on to commend workplace culture in the Netherlands, stating that balance between professional responsibilities and personal life is not merely discussed but genuinely practiced. According to her, the experience demonstrated a system built on mutual respect, trust, and basic human consideration.
Her post quickly gained attention online and sparked conversations about differences in work environments across countries. While many users echoed her sentiments, others shared contrasting views, saying they had experienced supportive managers in India as well. Some commenters argued that creating healthier work cultures at home is a shared responsibility, while others noted that gestures of understanding often motivate people far more than financial incentives ever could.
Attaining work–life balance begins with setting clear boundaries between professional and personal time. Prioritising tasks, planning the day effectively, and learning to say no to unnecessary commitments helps reduce stress. Taking regular breaks, maintaining realistic goals, and avoiding overworking are essential for long-term productivity. Equally important is making time for health, family, and hobbies to recharge mentally and emotionally. Disconnecting from work-related devices after office hours allows the mind to rest. When individuals manage time wisely and care for their well-being, they can maintain harmony between career responsibilities and personal life.
Thamke later shared the incident on Instagram, explaining that she reached out to her manager to discuss the possibility of continuing her work remotely from Mumbai for a short period. Rather than being met with hesitation or subtle pressure, her request was received with unexpected empathy and understanding.
She explained that the trip had to be planned at the very last moment due to the seriousness of the situation at home. After informing both her team and her manager about the emergency, she asked whether working from India would be acceptable under the circumstances. The reply she received, she said, was deeply reassuring and full of compassion.
Her manager not only gave her the option to work remotely if she felt capable but also encouraged her to take time off without any guilt. The emphasis, she noted, was placed squarely on her well-being and her family’s needs, with work taking a clear back seat during a personal crisis.
"You can work from Mumbai if you’re able to. Feel free to take leave. And please don’t stress — family comes first,” he said.
Reflecting on the interaction, Thamke highlighted how unfamiliar such a response felt to her. She pointed out that in many Indian workplaces, employees often struggle with asking for leave during emergencies, fearing judgment or professional consequences. Coming from that background, the kindness and trust shown by her Dutch manager felt almost unreal.
She went on to commend workplace culture in the Netherlands, stating that balance between professional responsibilities and personal life is not merely discussed but genuinely practiced. According to her, the experience demonstrated a system built on mutual respect, trust, and basic human consideration.
Her post quickly gained attention online and sparked conversations about differences in work environments across countries. While many users echoed her sentiments, others shared contrasting views, saying they had experienced supportive managers in India as well. Some commenters argued that creating healthier work cultures at home is a shared responsibility, while others noted that gestures of understanding often motivate people far more than financial incentives ever could.
Attaining work–life balance begins with setting clear boundaries between professional and personal time. Prioritising tasks, planning the day effectively, and learning to say no to unnecessary commitments helps reduce stress. Taking regular breaks, maintaining realistic goals, and avoiding overworking are essential for long-term productivity. Equally important is making time for health, family, and hobbies to recharge mentally and emotionally. Disconnecting from work-related devices after office hours allows the mind to rest. When individuals manage time wisely and care for their well-being, they can maintain harmony between career responsibilities and personal life.
( Originally published on Jan 19, 2026 )
