No success at work can ever replace the value of truly showing up for your child. Kids remember presence more than presents.

Q: How do you stay present for your daughter’s milestones while working?

One of the greatest blessings of my career is the flexibility it provides. I can shape my schedule around what matters most. My wife and I take our daughter to school, have lunch with her during her noon break, and pick her up after dismissal. We drive her to ballet classes and help her review lessons in the evening. We make time for simple, meaningful moments, like playing games; Scrabble, charades, reading stories, or watching family movies. During school breaks, whether summer or Christmas, we go on a trip abroad. I’ve designed my workday and year to be productive, but never at the cost of being present for my family.

Q: Why is it essential for dads to stay involved in their children’s lives despite work demands?

No success at work can ever replace the value of truly showing up for your child. Kids remember presence more than presents. Being involved builds their confidence, strengthens your bond, and lays the foundation for their emotional well-being and self-worth. As a father, I’m mindful that I’m my daughter’s first male role model. I’m also her protector, provider, and mentor. Our relationship will influence her future, so I strive to be physically present and emotionally available.

Q: From your experience, how can workplaces better support parents in balancing career and family life?

Support starts with culture and leadership. When leaders value family and trust their people, it creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Flexible work hours, remote options, and digital tools aren’t just conveniences. They’re life-changing for working parents. Our company’s digital platform enables our agency force to serve clients efficiently wherever they are in the Philippines, allowing us to spend quality time with my family. When companies give parents that kind of trust and freedom, it leads to happier, more productive, and more loyal teams.

Q: How does fatherhood inspire your work as a financial advisor?

Fatherhood gives my work a deeper purpose. I don’t just advise on wealth management and risk planning. I help families secure their future and prepare for the unexpected. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to protect what matters most. Every client I meet is someone’s parent, sibling, or child, which drives me to serve with empathy and excellence. Being a dad helps me connect on a more human level because I understand what a dad’s dreams are for his family, and what’s truly at stake should the unexpected happen.

Q: What’s your advice for balancing career success and family time?

Let’s be intentional. Success doesn’t have to come at the cost of family. It’s possible to have both if we’re clear about our priorities. Let’s build systems that give us freedom and say no to things that don’t align with our values. Success can be measured by many things, but more importantly, it is best defined by impact, especially at home. The best moments of a family aren’t always the grand gestures. They’re found in the mundane of the daily grind – the talks, shared meals, the waits, the long drives, and car rides. These are all priceless.

Balancing career and fatherhood

Transcript

Author(s):

Neil Andrew Llorente