A slice of cheese brings a smile to the face, but have you ever wondered about the journey behind each creamy bite? Recently, Bay of Islands cheesemakers, Mahoe Cheese, has been recognized for their artisanal mastery at the prestigious Champions of Cheese Awards, securing gold, silver, and bronze medals. But more than an accolade, it’s a testament to the delicate balance of family, passion, and commitment, a recipe that transcends beyond the realm of cheesemaking.
Mahoe Cheese, situated in the beautiful Far North, is undeniably synonymous with excellence in New Zealand’s dairy industry. But what one may not know is that at its core, it is a family-operated business. The superior quality of their cheeses is the result of a harmonious blend of time-honored traditions, innovative techniques, and the shared passion of a family devoted to their craft. These elements work together to create not just award-winning cheese, but a thriving and balanced family business.
Family balance, however, isn’t always about working together. Sometimes, it’s about taking a step back and redefining roles. Enter the “Power Pause,” a recently coined term by Neha Ruch, challenging the outdated label of “stay-at-home” parent. The concept emphasises the importance of taking career breaks, not as a setback but a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.
The Power Pause resonates with women worldwide, especially those transitioning between their professional life and caregiving responsibilities.
Instead of viewing these breaks as a halt, it should be seen as a strategic pause, a time to recharge, learn new skills, or pursue passions. The concept encourages women to redefine their value, not by their professional title, but by their versatility and resilience.
It’s a call to celebrate and normalize career breaks, a shift in narrative that could create a profound impact on family dynamics and work-life balance.
Meanwhile, in the realm of politics, the decision of Liberal MP Sean Fraser to seek re-election, despite his previous retirement plans, reflects another aspect of family balance. It’s about making choices that serve both personal life and career. It’s not uncommon to see politicians stepping away from their roles to focus on family life, only to return reinvigorated and ready to serve their community again. Fraser’s decision is a reminder that balance is not a fixed state but a continuous process of reassessing priorities and making adjustments.
Moreover, in a competitive political environment, like the recent hustles within the Conservative party, achieving balance can become even more critical. Amidst the heated campaigns, politicians are challenged to maintain a level-headed approach, balancing their personal convictions with the interests of the party and their constituents.
Balancing family life is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It varies from the artisan cheesemakers who blend work and family seamlessly to women embracing the Power Pause in their career journey and politicians juggling public service with personal life. It’s a dynamic process that requires continuous adjustments and re-evaluations. But one thing is certain, achieving family balance is not only possible—it’s an art worth mastering.