Like most business leaders, Ihave been checking in with my team members more frequentlylately, making sure everyone is healthy and engaged while we areall working remotely. On a recent call, a member of my team who isa mother of young children shared that she was using some of thetime while her child focused on schoolwork to work toward her ownlearning goals. I was impressed, not only by how she was using hertime to learn something new, but also that she was also modelingthe value of learning to her child.

Whether you are a parent learning alongside your child; aprofessional who has "found" time now that you are not commuting toan office; or just in need of a break to do something different forpersonal wellness, this period of remote work creates some uniqueopportunities to invest in developing our careers andourselves.

Taking the time to focus on development by building industryknowledge can have lasting career benefits. As the leader of LOMA'sProfessional Development programs, I have had the opportunity toconnect with many industry professionals who have developed theirindustry acumen by earning professional designations. Students whohave completed these challenging industry programs say theireducational achievement has helped them with credibility,confidence and overall self-esteem.