Genelia Deshmukh on striking a work-home balance: ‘I plan my shoot at 6 in the morning to be back …’; why parental presence matters | Lifestyle News

Genelia D’Souza Deshmukh has always been vocal about her thoughts, from topics ranging from partnerships to taking equal responsibility when it comes to running a household. In a 2024 interaction with podcaster Shreya Ghodawat, Genelia mentioned that she always encourages women to work and be independent. “I highly encourage a woman to have their work as well. I cannot work like I worked before. I cannot be out every single day of the year, not because I don’t want to, but because I can’t. Another girl would probably want to do it and that’s fine. That’s their understanding at home,” said Genelia, who is married to actor Riteish Deshmukh and has two sons with him.
She added that she makes it a priority to be available to her children and still work. “I don’t want my kids entering into a home that’s without anybody. So, I plan my shoot at 6 in the morning very often so that I am back home 4.30 pm when they come home. I found my way around it,” said Genelia, 37.
She further emphasised that children also need to realise and respect this pertinent aspect. “I feel that my kids need to know me as someone who’s worked as well. Not just always available, always accessible. They need to know that I am as disciplined in my work as I am to them as a mom. They need to respect people, especially women, and that would only happen if they see it,” said Genelia.
Taking a cue from her candid admission, let’s understand how parental presence makes all the difference.
Having a work-life balance is important, especially when you have children, said Dr Santosh Bangar, senior consultant psychiatr, Gleneagles Hospitals Parel Mumbai.
“Work-life balance is not just about managing time, but it is deeply connected to your child’s mental and emotional development. When at least one parent is present at home, it provides a great sense of security to the child. They feel emotionally stable. Parental presence makes them feel heard, seen, and most importantly, valued. This helps build a healthy bond, self-esteem, and trust. Children often seek comfort from their parents. When parents are not available or absent, it can lead to feelings of loneliness, sadness, frustration, depression, anxiety, and even behavioral issues,” said Dr Bangar.
Being around is more than just showing your mere presence. Even small moments of connection in day-to-day life, like sharing a meal, baking your favourite desserts, or reading a bedtime story, can help support your little one’s emotional well-being.Story continues below this ad
When both parents are frequently busy or emotionally unavailable, it can take a severe toll on your child’s mental health.
Genelia Deshmukh with Riteish Deshmukh and their two sons. (Photo: Genelia Deshmukh/Instagram)
According to Dr Bangar, they may crave your attention, love, and care. “Over time, children learn to suppress their feelings, and their emotions can suffer. Giving time is not about just being home for a longer duration. It is also about the quality of interaction you have with your child,” he said.
Even working parents can work it out and maintain this much-needed balance. “This can be achieved creating daily intentional routines, avoiding office work at home, being present in the moment instead of replying to emails or messages, and showing your child that they matter,” said Dr Bangar.

This emotionally available environment encourages the kids to grow up as confident, mentally healthy, and emotionally intelligent adults.