- Jennifer Oliva left her job after an RTO (Return to Office) mandate in Fall 2021.
- She’s enjoyed working remotely since March 2020, finding a much better work-life balance.
- Prioritizing control over her schedule, she now runs her own publicity firm.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with
Jennifer Oliva
, a 54-year-old professional who quit her job after an RTO mandate. The following has been edited for length and clarity.
I dedicated almost 25 years to working as a network television producer in New York City and Washington, DC. While the job was demanding, it was also exhilarating.
Prior to the pandemic, my daily commute from Long Island to the city took around one hour and fifteen minutes each way. This routine, grueling as it was, felt normal because I’d adapted to it over the years.
March 2020: Everyone Was Sent Home Due to COVID-19
Much like many other sectors, our industry had to quickly adapt to remote work. Instead of being out in the field producing segments with reporters, I now coordinated everything from my dining room table via video calls and emails.
Initially, working from home meant longer hours because the temptation to stay logged on was ever-present. Over time, however, I established a better work-life balance.
The Commute vs. Quality Time
My previous routine involved walking to the train station, enduring a 50-minute train ride followed by a 15-minute subway ride. This cycle began at 7:30 a.m. and ended around 7:30 p.m.
I used to work on the train in the mornings and unwind by watching TV shows on my phone during the evening commute. Yet, I always felt that the time could be better spent with my children or managing household responsibilities.
When I transitioned to working from home, I continued waking up at 6:30 a.m. Instead of rushing to catch a train, I used the early hours to exercise and organize my day. The hours previously spent commuting were now dedicated to my children, family, and friends.
This shift made me feel healthier and more fulfilled. Without the daily commute, I had the freedom to prepare meals, take midday walks, and, most importantly, be present for my children.
This enhanced quality time unveiled a new kind of work-life balance, one I deeply cherished and wanted to maintain.
The RTO Mandate: Fall 2021
In the fall of 2021, my company mandated a full return to the office, requiring everyone to be present five days a week. I asked for a hybrid work schedule, but my request was denied without exception, which left me baffled.
Arguing that I had proven my capability to work effectively from home, I highlighted how remote work had improved my productivity and work-life balance. Nevertheless, the rigid stance of my company offered no flexibility.
Although disappointed, I understood that the company had to consider its business needs. It was a corporate decision, after all.
Choosing My Family Over the Office
As a single mother of two, I had no immediate backup plan. Hence, I initially returned to the office for a few months, only to feel like I was reverting to an older, less efficient lifestyle. The new systems I had implemented for increased productivity were severely disrupted by the return to commuting.
By November, I once again requested a hybrid work schedule, which was denied. Consequently, I made the difficult but necessary decision to quit my job in December.
Switching Careers: From Television to Publicity
Leaving my 25-year career in network television production, I decided to explore new avenues. I initially joined a production company as a senior producer, a fully remote role. However, I soon realized that it wasn’t the right fit for me.
Ultimately, I launched my own
publicity company. This venture granted me full control over my schedule and lifestyle. While I now work more hours, the flexibility lets me engage more meaningfully with my family while managing my career effectively.
The RTO Mandate Became My Blessing in Disguise
In retrospect, if the pandemic had not occurred, I might still be working my same network TV job in an office setting. The RTO mandate was the catalyst, showcasing a different working style that I didn’t realize I desired.
This mandate ultimately guided me to a fulfilling career path as a remote worker and entrepreneur. My motivation now stems from ensuring my company’s success, allowing me to enjoy my preferred work-life balance and continue working from the comfort of my home.
Want to share your story? Email Lauryn Haas at [email protected].
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