We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Gibson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
My idea of work-life balanced changed when I became a parent in November of 2020. At the beginning of the year, I was going into the office on an 8-6 schedule and was always feeling exhausted from commuting and long meetings. I dreaded the idea of trying to balance working in an office with parenting. Thankfully, my company moved to a remote work environment and plans to operate with a hybrid workplace for the foreseeable future. Working remotely is giving me the time and flexibility I need to be with my daughter. I used to prioritize my wardrobe and worry about being at the office early. Working out of my home has enabled me to have more family time whether it’s taking a walk outside together or having the energy to go hiking during the weekend. I consider work-life balance to be having both a satisfying career and time for meaningful interactions with those who I care about most. This seemed impossible to me at first, but I am hoping it can be achievable if employers allow for flexible and remote working options.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I work in supply chain management for a global food production company. My path to get to my career was not straightforward, but I’m proud of where I am after years of dedicating time and effort to a field that was not my initial background. Working in a large food supply chain allows me to continually solve new problems and I am currently in a program to receive my Master’s in Supply Chain Management. It’s been challenging to balance my graduate program with working and being a mother. I am looking forward to completing the program and furthering my career while enjoying time with my family.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to treat visitors to short hikes and beautiful views. I recommend driving into Breckenridge, stopping in Dillon to visit the Sapphire Point Overlook. Once you reach Breckenridge, park near the Trollstigen Trail to see Isak Heartstone. If you are visiting in the fall, head over to Aspen Alley to view the beautiful trees along an old mining trail. I recommend finishing your day with a walk into the town of Breckenridge, viewing some shops, and grabbing a beer and burger at the Breckenridge Pour House.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
To my mom, who I appreciate so much more since becoming a mom myself!

Website: http://nutshellortwo.com/

Instagram: laurensbunnies_ , nutshellortwo

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-gibson-cscp-65b41887/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.