Embracing Flexibility as A C-suite Mom by Jeanne Hopkins

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Blending Parenthood and Career: Stories and Lessons from a Mom of Twins

As an experienced professional and a mom of twins, I believe that there are different ways of merging parenthood and career. Having been through years of infertility treatments and becoming a mom at 40, I can tell you from experience that motherhood is no walk in the park nor is juggling career alongside it. However, with a bit of planning, humor, and a load of understanding, attaining a work-parenting balance becomes more manageable.

The Joys and Challenges of Being a Working Mom of Twins

Blessed with twins at 40, my life took a new turn. The joys of motherhood were accompanied by the challenges of being a working mom. There were times when guilt seeped in, but the key is not to let it overpower. Being a mother feels like running a small business—with employees that constantly demand my attention and care. However, the bond and joy twins bring are incomparable, helping each other grow, providing companionship to one another lessening single parenting stresses.

Managing Career Around Kids

With my twins, I started working for four hours per week to keep my mind stimulated while also focusing on my babies. Those initial years demanded backup or contingency plans. The principle, however, lies in scheduling and planning your day productively. Even though I had the luxury of working from home most days, the rule applies to everyone -- you can figure out when and where you work best, as long as you get work done without needing to ask for permission or feel guilty about your personal commitments.

The Guilt and Permission Conundrum Women Face

One striking difference I've observed in my career journey is that women often feel the need to ask for permission. Whether it's to attend their child's graduation or to visit the doctor's office, women, particularly mothers, feel guilty for taking time off work for personal commitments. As a working mother, it's crucial to remember that you need not ask for permission or over-explain your commitments.

Maintaining Flexibility and Embracing the Absurdity of Life

  1. Stop comparing yourself to others: Every individual, every parent, every worker is at different stages in their life. It's crucial not to compare your situation with others.
  2. Plan around challenging times: As a parent and worker, knowing your tough times––like May and September––and being prepared for them is beneficial. You can balance your work and home effectively by planning fewer activities during these demanding times.
  3. Stop feeling guilty: While performing multiple roles, guilt can often be overpowering. It's critical to remind yourself about the choices you make for your well-being and not feel guilty about those.
  4. Helping and supporting one another: we have a responsibility towards each other. By mentoring and supporting other women in their journey, we build an empathetic and understanding community.
  5. Laugh about the absurd amount of work we do: Life is absurd, and we must remember to laugh at things and keep ourselves happy and stress-free.
  6. Start each day afresh: Remember, tomorrow is another day to restart, and as long as you remain flexible, you can balance your work and home effectively.

As a mom, more than being productive each day, if you have managed to keep your children alive and well for the day, then you've done an excellent job. You don't have to overthink or overdo things—just go with the flow, maintain flexibility, and keep the laughter going!

Over to You

I hope that my journey and insights could provide some food for thought. Whether you are a working mom, a stay-at-home mom now working, or a first-time mom-to-be, remember that we all are in this together. Let's share, laugh, and support one another in this wonderful journey of parenting and progressing in our career.


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