In the words of Sir Richard Branson “Screw it. Just do it” is a term that can be associated with managing a career and raising children; it’s tough. In times past the role of women was
set in stone as homemakers, thus preventing any consideration of developing a professional career. In retrospect, we can all agree that raising children is a career in the home. Due to the demands of life whether by choice or the sheer need for another source of income in the household – mothers in the workforce; are faced with the balancing act of being a career woman by day and mother by night.
The increase in the number of mothers in the workplace meant a dramatic change in the dynamics of organisations. Moreover, as these women sought opportunities to take on leadership roles or made the decision to become entrepreneurs, their dual roles as mothers and career women were thrown into the demanding spotlight of the corporate world. They now had to balance day-care and parent- teacher conferencing with business negotiations and corporate strategy development.
On one hand women are viewed as more organised and committed employees, while on the other as distracted and unfocused due to their maternal responsibilities. This has resulted in a constant need for them to prove their competence in assigned roles. Within the organisation they must act as enforcer, referee, problem solver, emotional manager or idea generator. As mothers they must be detective, negotiator, referee, nurse, counsellor, banker and most importantly, an encyclopaedia in order to answer the never-ending questions from kids. The former role requires a more formal approach as the interaction is among adults who are expected to function independently, while the latter role requires an informal approach demanding her undivided attention for everyday living. This results in a constant battle to identify a balance and distinction of the roles.
In general, working mothers have managed to incorporate the skills acquired in parenting to strengthen their abilities at work. It can be said that mothers are innately equipped with the skill to multitask, especially when raising multiple children, a very useful skill for the workplace. Additionally, her ability to adjust to the demands of long hours can be compared to tending to her young during their infancy stages when long nights are the order of the day.
Nonetheless, to succeed in the workplace career mothers must be able to adapt to the rapid changes in the work environment. This is made easier with the advent of the information age. The old adage “No man is an island” holds true in a mother’s ability to develop a successful career. Therefore, it is necessary to build a dependable support system of family, friends and a reputable childcare facility. Other valuable traits include excellent time management, the ability to compartmentalise, goal setting and the ability to dedicate time for self renewal. This list is by no means exhaustive but simply identifies key traits.
The decision to raise children and develop a career in parallel is challenging, however it is worthwhile and rewarding.
