A 17-Year Hiatus: Rediscovering Work and Purpose

Anna Assisi recently made a remarkable comeback to the workforce after a 17-year hiatus, during which she dedicated herself to raising her children. Her journey reflects the significant changes in the world during her absence. When she last worked, Facebook was yet to arrive in India, and Netflix was mailing DVDs, not streaming online.

Anna’s story is unique not just for her long break but also because she needed to redefine her place in this transformed professional landscape. She questioned her worth and explored her options. A psychologist helped her see that her life experiences were a valuable resume, including managing family, finances, and health crises. This fresh perspective gave her the confidence to seek opportunities in her field.

Anna found her dream job as a senior project coordinator at an NGO focused on helping economically disadvantaged adolescent girls. Her work involves liaising with schools and overseeing community programs. Despite the challenges of technology and the generational gap, she’s adapting well. She’s also learning about contemporary concepts like intersectionality and gender-neutral terminology.

As Anna rebuilds her career, she’s invigorated and socially connected. Her story is an inspiration to many, and she plans to work until she’s 75, now that her stay-at-home phase is over. Anna’s journey serves as a testament to the resilience and potential for reinvention, even after a prolonged career break.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Hindustan Times