5 Common Challenges Faced by Working Moms
Working and raising kids is no easy feat. For many mothers, this leaves them exhausted as they strive to balance both. Some end up leaving their careers and jobs to care for their kids and family. However, this does not have to be your situation. While scenarios can vary for everyone, this article outlines five common challenges faced by working moms and ways to approach them.
Mom Guilt Never Seems to Go Away
Mothers are often dealing with guilt, as their hearts may be torn between their jobs and their children. This is especially true when they miss school events, games, or are too tired to read a bedtime story.
It is important to know this does not make you a bad mom. At the end of the day, knowing they are fully loved and cared for by you speaks volumes, even if there are times you cannot be as present as you would like. And, you can still have the confidence that you your kids will turn out okay. What matters is finding the right balance. Let your employer be aware of your situation. You can also consider delegating if you are your own boss.
Workplace Harassment
Mothers, like any other employees, deserve a safe and respectful workplace, but this is not always the case. Sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination sometimes happens in the workplace. Some women end up suffering in silence because of shame or fear of losing their jobs. It is wise to report any form of misconduct as soon as possible. Do this through proper channels. For example, if you are a victim of sexual assault or sexual abuse, seek legal help. You will be guided on your options and ensure the responsible parties are held accountable.
Document the incident if you can to support your claim. This may include:
- Emails
- Photographs
- Security camera footage
- Medical records
- Written statements from witnesses
Keep also copies of complaints submitted to your employers. It will help establish your claim. Taking action will help you heal. It will also lower the probability of happening to others.
Lack of Work Flexibility Makes Everything Harder
You can plan out the week in advance, but with children, things are not always as smooth. Kids can get sick, the caregiver might cancel at the last minute, and you may get a call to go to an unexpected appointment.
When the workplace has strict routines, life’s ordinary situations become stressful. Many mothers dread the thought of asking for time off or changing work hours.
Flexible working hours or hybrid solutions can make a huge difference.
Career Goals Can Feel Like They’re on Hold
Starting or growing a family can potentially slow a mothers’ professional progress. This is because maternity leave, flexible schedules, reduced travel, or declining overtime opportunities may temporarily affect career advancement.
It is easy to compare yourself to coworkers whose lives may allow them to dedicate more time to work, but careers don’t have to follow the same timeline for everyone. Continue to build your skills and networking when possible. You can also explore online learning opportunities to advance your skill set and career from home.
Child Costs Are Usually High
As the cost of living continues to rise, families face many financial challenges, and child rearing expenses can add to the strain. Accessing quality care means you need to go deeper into your pockets. This leaves many mothers to question if they can find affordable care without sacrificing the quality of care.
According to studies, this is one of the highest recurring monthly expenses in many households. This makes it harder for families, especially if they depend on one income source. You might with your employer whether they offer subsidies or financial assistance for childcare arrangements. If they offer such support, this would help ease the financial burden.
How Mothers Can Cope with These Challenges
You cannot manage everything alone without help. Here are some tips:
- Setting realistic expectations for both work and home responsibilities
- Teach your children to be responsible and clean after themselves
- Set clear boundaries between work, parenting, and self-care
- Create a shared family calendar or list for easier tracking appointments, school events and work deadlines
- If you are married or have a partner, establish a sharing of tasks
- Have a reliable support system in place…you don’t have to be shy about accepting help
Endnote
Juggling work and parenting looks different for everyone. There may be times of stress, self-doubt, and difficult choices, but that comes with the territory. Giving yourself some grace to know you are doing your best, combined with knowing your limits and how to best support yourself, it is possible to feel fulfilled and achieve success both on the career and motherhood track.
