When I was pregnant with my first child, I remember people frequently asking me if I would return to work. And I remember thinking… yes of course I’m going to return to work (it’s part of who I am and what I love) but also being torn that I didn’t want my newborn with a nanny or in daycare full-time.
Fast forward two and a half years, and I’m about five weeks away from delivering my second child and preparing for maternity leave this summer. With my impending departure and Mother’s Day around the corner, I find myself reflecting upon my current status as a working mom with a flexible schedule. My situation enables me to spend a good amount of time with my son every week while remaining an active participant in the workforce. I am very fortunate and recognize that I am in a rare situation. I honestly feel that I have the best of both worlds.
I strongly believe that I’ve been able to transcend the heated “mommy wars” because of my situation. Some days I’m in the office focusing on PR strategy and immersed in the ever-changing media landscape while other days I’m out dancing the hokey pokey and finger painting with toddlers.
Flexible work schedules and job shares are more common today than they were a decade ago. However, the economic climate has forced companies to make some difficult decisions, which has certainly impacted moms in similar roles.
The founder of Rose Communications, Rosemary Ostmann, has always been a big proponent of an entrepreneurial environment. In doing so she’s created one of the best places for moms to work. I am passionate about my job, clients and company and honestly feel that I am more productive here than I’ve ever been. It’s not about clocking in and logging hours –it’s about producing value for our clients and that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to burn the midnight oil five to seven days a week. Being a mom is a wonderful, awe-inspiring experience and if it’s taught me nothing else, it’s taught me to be a better multi-tasker. This skill set is beneficial both at home and in the office.
With my second child on the way, I’m hopeful that I can keep the balancing act going. Certainly technology, in particular my coveted Blackberry, helps to facilitate the juggle. Also working in a supportive environment– one that doesn’t mind breast milk stored in the fridge or a late morning arrival because of a toddler music class– helps. In my mind, it is possible to be a working mom who still spends a good amount of time at home with her child.
Occasionally my worlds collide where I’m singing Music Together songs at work or thinking about a complex work issue on the playground but more often than not I’ve been able to keep things separate.
What I’ve learned over the past two years is there doesn’t have to be a hard line drawn in the sand — in 2009 we can all redefine for ourselves what it means to be a working mother. For me it’s a hybrid and I love every minute of it.
Hello Rosemary & Tracey! I was forwarded a link to this blog post and found it both timely and reassuring as a new mom-to-be. As you know, Rob and I are expecting our first in October. I share your thoughts and the “of course, I’m returning to work” sentiment. I’m enjoying the flexibility (and increased productivity) of a home-based position and know it will certainly make all the difference in my own balancing act soon to appear this Fall. Thanks for putting this so eloquently! Hope all is well with you both and your families!
Thanks for the message Jill and congrats on the impending birth of your baby. I know you’ll do a fine job as a working mommy– and remember to be kind to yourself!! Keep us posted on the baby.