May 2nd, marked my 14th work anniversary at Bosch – and 20 years overall in my professional journey.
What makes the 14th year special?
It’s not the number – it’s the realization that makes it meaningful.
It’s about how I feel about myself, my career, and my life after these 14 years with Bosch.
I clearly remember reaching my 10-year milestone at Bosch – a proud professional moment, celebrated with congratulatory messages and well wishes.
But behind that milestone, I was facing a difficult reality that many working professionals, especially women, might relate to: navigating personal challenges where education, independence, and ambition were misunderstood. In some spaces, being career-driven was seen as being disrespectful or difficult.
I come from a family that once lost everything while fighting for our nation’s freedom. We rebuilt ourselves through education. Every woman in my family has stood tall on her own feet and passed on that strength to the next generation.
Financial independence is not a luxury – it’s the only way I know to live.
My parents had one dream: to educate us well and make us independent – not to be in competition with anyone, least of all our future families – but to be strong enough to stand shoulder to shoulder in times of crisis, just in case life throws us challenges like the ones they faced.
Choosing to work or stay at home is a deeply personal decision, and I respect both choices. But before pressuring your spouse to give up her career, ask yourself: yes, you can provide today – but if life changes, if you’re no longer there, how do you expect her to suddenly become a “wonder woman” overnight?
It’s not always about earning – it’s about freedom, dignity, and preparedness. A bird that’s been caged too long may see flying as a threat, not a possibility.
In my case, however difficult it was, I chose what was right for me – thanks to a job that gave me purpose, coworkers who valued and supported me, and an environment where I was appreciated.
I’ve always believed that there’s no clear divide between personal and professional life. Life is a unified experience. During the hardest personal moments, it was my professional life that gave me the strength and stability to endure and grow.
At 10 years with Bosch, I didn’t fully realize my own strength or potential. But now, at 14, I do. I cherish the person I’ve become.
And with this awareness, I’ve decided – I won’t just celebrate the big milestones. I’ll celebrate every year, every month, and every day of my work life.
Because I’ve earned it. Every single day.
