Posted on behalf of Johnson Storage & Moving employee Barbara Newell.

When my grandchildren were younger, they were very involved in sports. And, of course, I was their number one fan. But their football games, wrestling matches and soccer scrimmages were often in the early afternoon, making it nearly impossible for someone working a typical job to attend.

Lucky for me, I don’t work at a typical job. I was right there in the front row, cheering my grandchildren on.

I’m proud to say I’ve worked for Johnson Storage & Moving for 38 years. But for the last eleven years, I’ve been working from home, thanks to my employer’s flexible work policies.

I took the opportunity when it was offered to me, but I didn’t realize what a difference it would make until I started having health problems a few years ago. I never have to worry about missing work for a doctor’s appointment because I have the flexibility to schedule my life and work in a way that works for me. Knowing that I can finish my work when I get home in the evening, or on the weekend, is an immense relief.

I was also able to care for my husband years ago when he had open heart surgery. Instead of going to work and stressing over how he was doing, I could stay at home to watch him and work at the same time.

And if the star of the football team ever had an off-day, he could come to Grandma’s house to recharge and get better – even in the middle of the week.

These policies are so friendly. I really feel like my company is doing something for me, and it makes me want to give even more back to them. This is my dream job. It’s absolutely marvelous. It’s worked out so well for me, working around my life, and I’m so thankful for it.