Career and motherhood – a balance that is hard to achieve for most women. It is a struggle between maintaining your own individuality while also enjoying your responsibilities as a mother. Each one contributes to who you are and it is essential that you identify the right balance in order to feel fulfilled.
Being a role model as a working mother isn’t only about having a career, it has many different facets that your children are observing and learning from.
I think the number one advice I would give anyone is to tune into what makes you happy.
There are also varying levels of work commitments that you can take on. Explore possibilities of part-time work and slowly transition to a place where you think you are at your perfect balance between work and home.
Your children need to see a mother who feels fulfilled instead of someone who is discontent either because she is overworked or feels guilty not being at home with her family.
Be a role model for your children by showing them that it is far more important to be content and happy with your choices.
Everyone talks about a work-life balance but not many get into the nuances of what that entails for a mother. It does not matter whether you are a new mom getting back to work after your maternity leave or if you are returning to the workforce after an extended period of time. The transition is difficult for the family and especially for the mother.
What many do not realize is that there are quite a few critics when a woman decides to quit her job to be a full-time mother – just like there are many who will look down upon a working mother. It’s a struggle both ways.
However, if you are constantly second-guessing your decision of going back to work, your children will pick up on it.
If you have the option, take the time to start part-time and slowly work your way up until you are comfortable with your working hours and commitments.
It is no longer a case of being stuck in the same career path that you chose when you were a teen. Accept that as you age, your interests may change as well and it’s ok to have the conviction to explore a different career.
Although I am an engineer and worked in the field for many years, I decided to be a full-time mom to my daughter once she was born. Now that my daughter is older, I have rediscovered my love of writing.
My daughter has mentioned how proud she is that although I am not a trained writer, I stepped out of my comfort zone and launched my book.
It is ok to ask for help! Build a support system to help you succeed. If you have a partner, he or she must share the burden. It isn’t yours to bear alone. Help them understand that child-rearing, just like other household or financial responsibilities, is a team commitment. If you are lucky to have the support of family and friends, do not hesitate to reach out when in need.
With the additional help, you can feel assured that your child is in the loving care of others who you trust. Although not the same, it is a big step in alleviating some of that background guilt that tends to creep up on you!
I would always ask you to be true to what gives you happiness – whether having a career or being a full-time mother. Positive vibes will lead to a more content motherhood for you and a loving childhood for your precious little one.
Parul Gupta
Mansi Zaveri
KSP Team
Faujimom
Rati Ramadas Girish
