The task of balancing working and living is a struggle daily for several parents, but for Racheal Kaur, an Indian-origin mother in Malaysia, this challenge takes on a whole new level. Kaur’s journey as a “super commuter” involves flying across the country every single day, determined not to miss out on her children’s growing years.

Determined to Balance Family and Career

Racheal Kaur, an assistant manager in AirAsia’s finance operations, was initially renting a place in Kuala Lumpur to be closer to her workplace. Nonetheless, the constant separation from her children in Penang prevented her from achieving a good balance between work and personal life. The separation, especially from her two kids, weighed heavily on her.

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“I have two kids, both are growing. My oldest is 12, and my daughter is 11. With them growing, I feel the need for the mother to be around more often. With this arrangement, I’m able to go home every day. I’m able to see them at night and help out with any last-minute homework,” Kaur shared in an interview with CNA.

She started work by flying daily from Penang to Kuala Lumpur and back in the evening. Surprisingly, the demanding routine has provided a better work-life balance, allowing her to stay connected with her children while maintaining her career.

Rigorous Routine of a Super Commuter

Kaur’s day starts early at 4:00 am, then she departs from home at 5:00 am and goes to the airport. At 5:55 am, she is airborne, landing in Kuala Lumpur by 7:00 am, and is at the office by 7:45 am. The day is over when Kaur takes an evening flight and returns to her home in Penang at 8:00 pm. This procedure allows her to maintain precious evening time with her kids.

Every day, she travels 350 kilometers, which is similar to a corporate traveler in India traveling from Aurangabad to Mumbai or Shimla to Delhi. Although her journey is arduous, it allows Kaur to fulfill her professional ambitions whilst being present for her children.

Financially Smarter, Emotionally Rewarding

Amazingly, flying daily has turned out to be a more financially wise decision. Through the act of selecting through this procedure, Kaur, consequently, has gained financial savings on rent and lodging. Her monthly costs associated with food and housing decreased from $474 (Rs 42,000) to $316 (Rs 28,000), which validated the practicality and affordability of her decision.

However, owing to their busy schedule, for Kaur, her daily flights are a most precious opportunity to find some peace, each of them serving as a sanctuary in the chaotic universe. The flights are a ‘me time’ that allows me to think, listen to the music, and enjoy all the stunning views above,” she said.

Why Not Work from Home?

Though tired, Racheal Kaur would not change her schedule. Her most fulfilling daily event is coming home to her children for dinner. Every flight is worth it once she steps through the front door at 8:00 pm. According to her, “For Kaur, every trip worth happens when she sees her children at day’s end.”

Rachael Kaur’s tale is a motivating illustration of endurance, sacrifice, and the extensiveness of a mother going to provide her children the best of both worlds: a great job and an always available, caring mother.