Why Caregiving is a Superpower, Not a Career Setback

Many professionals fear that stepping away from their careers to provide care for a loved one will result in an insurmountable resume gap. However, the reality is that caregiving builds an unparalleled set of skills—ones that employers should recognize as assets rather than liabilities.

The Untapped Leadership Potential of Caregivers

During my two leaves of absence to care for my parents, I honed critical skills in communication, project management, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. These are the very competencies businesses invest heavily in developing among their leadership teams.

Employers who support caregivers not only foster goodwill but also retain loyal and dedicated employees. When I returned to work, I brought back a renewed commitment to my organization, ready to contribute at an even higher level.

What Employers Can Do

• Acknowledge caregiving as leadership training: Employees who take on caregiving responsibilities gain valuable problem-solving, time management, and advocacy skills.

• Implement flexible policies: Hybrid work, paid leave, and return-to-work transition plans can make all the difference.

• Normalize caregiving conversations: Recognizing and discussing caregiving roles in the workplace can destigmatize the experience and create a supportive culture.

Caregiving is not a career setback—it’s a superpower. Organizations that recognize this will see stronger, more engaged employees who bring a depth of experience that’s difficult to teach in traditional corporate settings.