Here’s How This Techie Has Cracked The Secret To Work-Life Balance!

Lakshmi Ambady shares her perspectives on how Accenture has offered her numerous opportunities to find herself and grow. Between work, yoga, writing poetry, solo travel, volunteering and more, Lakshmi tells us how she is #MakingItWork.
 

Tell us about yourself.

I spent the first 18 years of my life in Dubai, where I completed my schooling before I moved to Kerala to study engineering. When I graduated, nearly four years ago, I was placed in Accenture.

Coming to my interests, I have always loved learning—nearly as much as I love appearing for exams. There have been times when I have registered and appeared for entrance exams just to test my skills, and I ended up clearing the exams!

(Also read - 5 successful women leaders who achieved a work-life blend​)
 

Tell us a little about your career path and your current role.

I started out as an Oracle database administrator. After a role change, I am now working as a functional architect. My new role demands that I be on my toes every day, which I love! And I’m still growing. Every day.

I also head the communications club for Communications, Media & Technology PPA, Accenture. CMT Communication Club was formed to cater the communication needs of the team, this is an internal club which ensures that Accenture Marcom Guidelines have been followed and all outgoing communication has been standardized.
 

What does your typical workday look like?

I start my mornings with an hour of yoga and meditation. It gives me the perfect dose of energy required to keep going on a busy day! I then get to work and begin my day-to-day tasks, such as gathering requirements for new initiatives, estimating projects and documenting project details, system requirements, SME approvals, etc.

For me, not a day goes by without meditation and music. I also love to write poems. After getting off work, I like to go for a jog before I have my dinner.
 

Any interesting pursuits outside of work?

Yes! On weekends, I train kids in “Tarka Shastra,” the ancient science of strengthening and sharpening the logical mind. I also love exploring new places. I have been doing a few solo trips recently and it has been a remarkable experience for me. I always feel that there is just too much to do and too little time!
 

Has Accenture played a role in your professional and personal growth?

Definitely. Each time I do good work, appreciation is guaranteed. My peers, supervisors, managers, HR personnel—everyone has been very supportive of me at every step of my career journey.
Professionally, I have been able to choose my career path based on my interests and personal goals. For instance, my supervisors have been extremely supportive of my role transition and have helped me set targets and achieve them.

At the end of the day, I am joyful and that is all that matters. I must say, it is definitely a rewarding experience to work for Accenture.

(Also Read - Why work-life balance is perceived as an issue for working women only?​)
 

Who has inspired you the most at work?

I might sound arrogant saying this, but I have no particular person in mind. I find my inspiration in my daily life.
 

Do you have any advice you would like to give to freshers joining Accenture?

Ask. Ask. Ask. Do not assume you’ll get what you want without asking. Always speak up. Keep looking for opportunities to prove yourself.
 

Explore exciting career opportunities at Accenture!