I am sure you have.
Even then, let me share a story about Poonam and me.
In 2018 I moved from Delhi to Siliguri with my two daughters aged 8 and 1.5 years to join my husband who was posted while serving the Indian army.
My right shoulder had dislocated for the second time within 4 months, I had to join a new clinic and was obviously stressed.
Another officer moving out introduced me to Poonam. I needed a nanny and caretaker so she joined us. On enquiring about her background I was told she has two sons in the hostel and had separated from her husband. But Poonam said renting a new home to bring kids back was her priority and asked if the pay would be enough to accommodate this. I noticed the strength in her voice as she said this and couldn’t help admiring her formidable presence. I accepted.
Within a month she settled in with my kids. More than that she would help me dress to work as my shoulder was still sore, made sure I ate, rested and exhibited remarkable empathy for me.
Her personal story that she shared a year later was of how she collected stones on river banks with an infant strapped on back and a difficult home condition from which she escaped as she wanted to ‘live’ and not merely exist.
What I learnt from Poonam.
1) Unshakeable punctuality.
Me showing up at work meant she showed up at my home.
2) Time management.
She made calls on the dot to coincide with my tea break at the clinic of what has to be done at home.
3) Fearlessness
Nothing frightens her. I witnessed her stand for her rights. She inspired me to find my own voice.
4) Resilience
She did not let her past weaken her. She saved and worked hard every single day
5) Commitment to work
She actually loves my daughters and cares as her own. That’s her work and she made sure she did it right
How I supported Poonam
1) Financial
Made sure her payments were on time.
She has bills and loans to pay. Even during COVID and she couldn’t come to my home ( our military station was locked for 4 months) she was paid.
2) Socially
She is part of my family. Loved respected and cared as much.
3) Emotionally
I heard her out. She had tough days and now laughs saying that she can boast of being my first client as I trained to be a mindset coach!
4) Understanding
Her leaves, breaks and off time were understood and accommodated
So It’s 2024.
Poonam has built her own home, it has a borewell, electricity, and all amenities in it. Her sons are studying and doing part time work too.
Apart from practicing, I completed my life coaching certification, launched my website and authored a book.
We both are women with vision
We both are working mothers
We are bound by mutual respect and admiration
We empower each other
Dr Simmi Roy Mishra
Physician and Mindset Coach
T +91 9821735240
SPEAK TO SIMMI
Life Coaching Services
502/8 Uttorayan, Matigara
Siliguri,734010
West Bengal,
India
www.speaktosimmi.com