Happy with flexi hours, committed and passionate about work

Ms Sharon Tham is grateful that she found a part-time job that fits her schedule.

"I feel blessed that my employers are supportive and that the nature of my job allows flexible hours," the 34-year-old said.

She works 2½ days a week - at least one in the office and the rest at home.

The mother of two boys aged four and seven feels that the main benefit of a flexible work schedule is the "bonding time" she can have with her children.

A senior researcher at the Civil Service College, she left her job as an assistant director in the Ministry of Education after having her first child.

"I don't feel that I've sacrificed my career for my family as I've always prioritised my role as a mum first," Ms Tham said. "But for other mums, it might be a trade-off as their careers have to take a back seat."

Ms Jennifer Chuan, who works as a freelance Web administrator for local online marketing agency Hover and Click, said: "Because of the trust that the employer places in the employee when she works flexi hours, she feels more obligated to deliver."

The 35-year-old gave up a high-ranking job as head of services in a pharmaceutical firm so that she could care for her three children - aged 13 months, four and five.

She is thankful that her company recognises her productivity. "My employers know that there is this very qualified group of mothers, but not enough work opportunities for them," she said. "I'm glad that many employers' attitudes are starting to change."

Tour associate Jerry Brown, 57, said: "People sometimes think that working part-time means less commitment to the job but it's not true.

"Passion keeps me giving 100 per cent whenever I'm out on a tour, even when the hours and long and tiring."

The former sailor specialises in taking students on learning tours. He finds particular pleasure in opening their eyes to conditions in Third World countries.

His employer, tour agency CTC Travel, schedules work based on its employees' availability.

"Flexible work is better because there's less stress," said Mr Brown, who has three sons in their 20s.

"Once I'm done with the job, I can go home with peace of mind."

Get a copy of The Straits Times or go to straitstimes.com for more stories.