Melissa Woo, once entirely absorbed in her banking career as OCBC’s executive director for wealth management audit, underwent a transformation that reshaped her view on work and family. After a pivotal career break in October 2023, she realized the profound importance of being present for her family, especially her daughters.

The Power of Unpaid Breaks

Woo’s two unpaid career breaks were initially intended to support her daughters through their Primary School Leaving Examinations (PSLE). However, those breaks offered her much more than expected: an opportunity for reflection and reconnection. “I could have done what I aimed for without taking the breaks, but being fully present was essential,” she explained.

These breaks allowed Melissa to create cherished memories with her daughters, helping them manage the stress of exam preparation while promoting their overall well-being. From ensuring they took necessary study breaks to extending mealtime conversations, she capitalized on every moment. “Those simple things, like sharing meals without the usual rush, enriched our bond immensely.”

The subtle yet significant impact of her time away from work became clear when her daughters expressed how much they cherished having her around, even after she returned to her job. Woo’s flexible schedule now allows her to balance work with her family life, including regular walks with her husband—a once-overlooked activity.

Embracing Change: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Woo’s journey toward self-discovery during her breaks didn’t stop at family. She also embarked on a personal wellness journey. Acknowledging her aging parents’ need for attention, she took them on a long-awaited trip to Japan—a dream that had been delayed due to the pandemic. This season of her life also permitted her to explore new fitness routines and deepen her spiritual life through volunteering.

Despite the positive outcomes of her breaks, the idea of stepping away from her career initially felt intimidating to Woo. The COVID-19 pandemic brought a wake-up call as she witnessed her children struggling in school. This prompted her to confront the fear of “giving up” her responsibilities. “I learned that it’s okay to take a step back and prioritize what truly matters,” she reflected.

Supportive Environment and Balancing Acts

At OCBC, a supportive culture surrounding career breaks allowed Woo to make this important decision. Employees with five years of service can take up to three months of unpaid leave, and Woo was heartened to see her colleagues being supported in their own breaks. “There’s no stigma attached here—you can discuss it openly,” Woo emphasized.

She understood the importance of communication with her team, informing them in advance of her first break in 2023. “This helped prepare everyone for my absence and ensured projects were managed effectively,” she shared.

Her journey is a valuable lesson in finding balance. Instead of trying to juggle it all, she asserted the importance of setting boundaries. “When you take a break, approach it with the right mindset,” she advised. “It helped me grow beyond my work-focused identity to really see what’s important in life.”

Final Reflections: A Call to Prioritize Self-Care

For those hesitant to take a career break due to perceived lack of support, Woo encourages starting small. “Make time for yourself every day, even if it’s only a few minutes. Realign your priorities,” she suggests.

As she looks ahead to 2025, Melissa is committed to making self-care a regular discipline—a reminder that prioritizing one’s well-being is not a luxury but a necessity. Her story serves as an inspiring beacon for anyone seeking a healthier work-life balance amidst the chaos of modern life.