Work-life balance for working mums

The summer holidays are in full swing. And although my toddler is happily playing away at nursery throughout the week, I know from other parents, the summer holidays currently feel like a second job. It comes as no surprise that there’s a growing debate in the news about shortening the school summer break – six weeks is a long time to juggle childcare, work deadlines, and the guilt that comes with feeling like you’re never quite giving enough to either. The question is, how do you strike a balance without burning out? Work-life balance is key, and here at Govtech, I’m fortunate to have just that. (Plus, I have two more years before I need to comprehend the six-weeks holiday!)

“You can’t have it all”

When I started my career, I was told quite frankly that you can’t be successful and have a family. The company culture reflected that – if you wanted to progress you were expected to sacrifice time with your family. If you want to be present for your kids, prepare to stall your career. That should have been a red flag, but like many people early on, I thought I just had to put up with it. Looking back, I know now that you shouldn’t have to choose. If a company makes you feel like you do, it’s the wrong company for you.

My journey

When it came to telling my boss, Andy, that I was pregnant the apprehension set in. For all my working life I was told that once you start a family, say goodbye to your career. So, I braced myself for the awkward pause, the subtle shift in how I’d be treated. Instead, he smiled, congratulated me and meant it. I can still remember now how much at ease he made me feel. He asked why I was so worried in sharing my fantastic news. I went on to explain why, based on my early career experience, and he was quite dumbfounded and disgusted that, in this day and age, people could discriminate against working mums, or those who wish to be one. Thankfully (or hopefully), we’re noticing that the tide is changing and working mums are being encouraged.

Maternity leave came and went and when I returned, the doors were wide open. Not just literally, but in attitude – what a relief. Flexible working wasn’t a begrudging allowance; it was a genuine conversation about what would work for me and my new little family. I’ve had days where I’ve needed to drop everything for my sick child or a nursery call in the middle of a meeting, and instead of judgement, I’ve been met with understanding. That’s precious but also should be a norm. And there have been times when the flexibility has worked the other way and I’ve chosen to work in the evening or on a weekend to meet a deadline without having to sacrifice my daytime routine.

Guilt, juggle and balance

Let’s be honest, it will always be a juggle. There will be moments of guilt, whether you’re answering emails during playtime or dropping out of a meeting to look after a poorly child. But balance makes it possible and with the right supportive workplace that values you as a person, and not just a bum on the seat, it can happen. A supportive company won’t just tolerate the unexpected; it will understand it. And that makes all the difference when you’re trying to be both the parent and the professional you want to be. After all, working Mums are the original flexible workers.

So, if I could go back and tell my younger self that, yes, you can have it all, the only thing stopping you is working for the right company, I would. It’s about work-life balance and you can make it happen… although ask me again in 2 years once my child starts school and I’ll let you know my perspective then!