Super-Moms Who Have It All

The journey of building your career is a challenging and demanding one, it requires time and patience. It requires a courageous person who is up for any obstacles thrown their way. It is as demanding as being a mother. Motherhood requires you to be patient, loving, and always up for a challenge. When both roles are done simultaneously, it is very easy to find yourself overwhelmed and feeling like you are not doing enough.  But don’t fret because you are not the only mother who feels this way. There are many working moms dealing with the same experiences – and who are doing very well for themselves.

The following 3 women all shared their experiences with us.

Nontokozo D

As a working mother of two, juggling my career with wanting to be the best mother to my children is an emotionally taxing job. I went from being super-obsessed with being successful in my career and wanting to be the ‘best of the best’ amongst my colleagues; to be super-obsessed with my children and wanting to be the ‘best of the best’ in my family.

I love and enjoy my job so much,  but I love my children just as much, if not more. The switch from being a workaholic to being a workaholic MOTHER was not an easy one. Fortunately, I have a great support system in my husband, so I don’t have to do this alone.

The biggest challenge I face being a working mom is successfully balancing the time I dedicate to my work, with the time I give my children. My work is very important to me – that is a legacy I plan to leave my children – however, what good is it if it means neglecting my loved ones? I’m still learning to do better in terms of time management.

Providing for all my children’s need is the highlight of being a working mom. Knowing that my children go to bed with a full stomach, in warm clothing and a happy heart brings me joy. To be able to spoil them every now and then, but most of all, leading by example to show what hard work can do for you.

My tips for working moms:

  • Have a list of chores for your kids, and pay them for doing the chores. It seems weird, but I have found that through this my children are learning that good work is rewarded, which further helps them understand why I work so hard.
  • Teach yourself to say “No”. This will come in very handy in the workplace for those co-workers who refuse to understand that you have an entire life outside of the office. Being able to say “No, I won’t be able to work overtime tonight because my daughter has a test she needs help preparing for’ will go a long way.

Sithembile K

I found out that I’m pregnant and I did not grasp the magnitude of it. My daughter is 15 months and I’m still learning; still amazed and humbled.

For me, the biggest challenge being a working mom is overcoming ‘mom guilt’. You want to progress in your career, but the guilt of having to make major sacrifices at the expense of your child is the toughest thing. You constantly remind yourself to look at the bigger picture. The best thing is having a tribe of people to help you – people who understand and support your cause.

My advice to working moms is:

  • Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re doing better than you think.
  • Take time out for yourself. Even if it’s just 30 minutes alone each day. Drink water and relax.
  • Invest in a tummy belt!

Masibonge M

Things I wish I knew before having a child:

  • I wish I had known how fast my bank balance would deplete! You can never be too prepared for that.
  • Once your child starts nursery, it feels  like you are going back in time. You must become a creative mom who is constantly eager to entertain and be energetic with and for your child.
  • Lastly, children draw on your energy, so it is important to protect your space and theirs.

General challenges I face as a working mom:

  • Corporate is demanding and stretching, so I always feel like I am playing catch-up between work and being a mother.
  • People are not always receptive of the struggle and juggle moms face. Everyone forgets that at times one is operating on 3-hours of sleep because the child was sick or fidgety all night

Tips I would give a working mom:

  • Find something that you can do as a family. My husband and I decided that Saturday mornings are strictly for family activities.
  • Create a space where you can be together and enjoy the milestones together.
  • Discipline is essential. There is always something that can take this time away, so you need to be prudent in protecting it.
  • I make all the meals at home by choice. I love cooking, and I have mastered cooking supper in 35 minutes. For me, this is a ‘giving back to my family’ moment.

There will always be something that could interrupt the time you have set aside for your family; therefore, discipline is essential. It is crucial that you protect this time. Being able to set aside equal time for your work as well as your family is great – however, if it is not possible, do not feel bad or think less of yourself because, at the end of the day, you are doing the best that you can. That is admirable!

Did you find this information useful? Feel free to leave a comment below.

Until next time.

The Wise About Life Team

3 Comments

  • I’m in this struggle and constantly feel like I’m dropping a ball somewhere. It’s hard. I try to pray about it, I try to be optimistic and I try not to be so hard on myself. 9 months in and I don’t know when I will strike a balance. It’s trial and error all the way.

    Reply
  • Hi there

    I’m a 31 year female and I’m 7 weeks pregnant I’m so scared out of my mind with everything happening in our world. However I’m so happy but regarding my work I’m praying I will have balance with both.

    Reply
    • Hi Meagan, thank you so much for sharing and we wish you the best moving forward with your pregnancy, everything will work out.

      Reply

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