Modern motherhood: Navigating career, family and self

In the ever-changing dynamic environment of modern society, the role of a mother has undergone a transformative process. This has impacted motherhood in the delicate equilibrium of cultivating a prosperous professional trajectory, fostering a flourishing familial existence, and preserving a personal identity. While striking a balance between career, family and oneself, a mother must overcome various challenges.  

Empowering moms: How to overcome the challenges:

• The balancing act

  1. The struggle: Mothers are frequently torn between the demands of work and the desire to spend quality time with their children.  
  2. How to manage it: Acknowledge that these sentiments are common and that you are not alone in experiencing them. The key is to find a balance that suits you and your family.  

• Mastering time management

1. 1. The struggle: Time is a finite resource and mothers often find themselves stretched thin attempting to efficiently divide their time between work, parenting, and personal life. 
   2. How to manage it: Effectively prioritise tasks by setting clear boundaries and utilising organisational tools such as to-do lists and digital calendars to organise your day and enhance productivity.  

• Navigating career progression amid motherhood

1. 1. The struggle: Concerns about the impact of motherhood on career progression are common. The fear of missing out on promotions or engaging in exciting projects due to family responsibilities is a prevalent worry. 
   2. How to manage it: Recognize that motherhood brings forth valuable skills such as time management, multitasking, and empathy, which can contribute positively to your professional life. Communicate your career goals openly with your employer and actively seek guidance and support on your professional growth.

• Prioritising self-care amidst motherhood

1. 1. The struggle: Mothers often prioritise the well-being of their children and careers over their self-care, thus neglecting their personal needs in the process. 
   2. How to manage it: Elevate the importance of self-care in your routine. This might involve incorporating regular exercise, engaging in a hobby you enjoy, or simply carving out downtime to recharge.  

• Need for a support system 

1. 1. The struggle: Experiencing isolation or a lack of support is a prevalent challenge that working mothers face. 
   2. How to manage it:Seek support from your partner and family first. Establish a community of fellow working mothers who comprehend your challenges and rely on your friends for further assistance.  

• Prefer quality over quantity

1. 1. The struggle: (h4)Certain mothers worry that they must dedicate every moment to their children to fulfil their role as good moms. 
   2. How to manage it:(h4) Emphasize the significance of quality over quantity when spending time with your children. Ensure you are present and fully engaged during your time together, fostering meaningful moments and lasting memories. 

2. Seek flexibility

• • The struggle: Numerous professions adhere to conventional 9-to-5 schedules, which may not necessarily align with the needs of a few mothers who want to come up in their careers. 
  • How to manage it: Explore freelance and remote work alternatives. In the digital age, numerous options are having flexible schedules and remote work. 

Conclusion

Balancing motherhood, family, career, and self-care harmoniously is achievable with appropriate strategies and support systems. It’s important to recognise that each mom’s journey is unique, and there is no universal solution. By acknowledging and tackling these shared challenges, you can discover your path toward a satisfying and successful equilibrium between career and motherhood. 

-Content partner Happiest Health