As I reflect on my journey as a working mum, my experiences of motherhood and career stands out as testimony to resilience, determination, and the art of balancing priorities – let’s call it “The Juggling Act”.
Picture this: a young, single mum in an era of no free childcare places or flexible working policies, embarking on her professional journey equipped only with the grit and determination to defy stereotypes. Driven by love and commitment to support her young family, and a knack for balancing responsibilities beyond mere paperwork. That’s been my reality. Honestly, raising two energetic boys has been anything but easy. Amidst a whirlwind of afterschool clubs, football games, World Book Days, school plays, and missed sports days, I soon realised that life was going to be one big Juggling Act if I wanted to succeed in a career as well as being a single mum. I’ll confess, there were times when it felt like I was juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle, but somehow, I managed to keep all the balls in the air (well, most anyway!).
Balancing my family and my career has been a challenge, but in doing so, it has taught me valuable lessons in patience, organisation, and adaptability – skills essential in any professional journey. It meant being there for every milestone, even if it meant sacrificing a few of my own along the way. And don’t get me started on the unexpected curveballs life throws, like childcare emergencies or the last-minute announcement of World Book Day just as you’re about to head out the door with the kids’ breakfast on your newly ironed blouse and wearing mismatched shoes! (True story 😳). Sometimes I wonder if joining the circus might have been less chaotic ha-ha! Joking aside, I’ve been fortunate to have many opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through it all, I’ve done my best to instil in my children a good work ethic and demonstrate the endless possibilities that come with hard work and following your dreams.
Among the chaos and endless juggling acts, rushing from playground drop-offs to conference events, I’ve adopted the “wearing of many hats” – each one a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that anything is possible. It was during the development of training materials for a software application that I stumbled upon the perfect fit, discovering my passion for a career in learning and development. There’s something satisfying in watching minds grow and empowering individuals to reach their full potential (perhaps that’s the mum in me). So, armed with passion and purpose I got stuck into to developing myself in this role.
And now, as I embark on a new chapter dedicated to my personal growth and development, guess what? The act doesn’t stop here. Nope, I’m dusting off those juggling balls once again, this time to pursue a CIPD Level 5 qualification in Organisational Learning and Development. Why? Because I have my sights set on becoming the Head of Learning and Development, and I’m determined that nothing will stand in my way.
But perhaps the greatest milestone of all, holding my grandchild for the first time as a Nanna 💙🥰. In that precious moment, cradling him in my arms, I’m reminded of my own sacrifices, struggles and achievements in raising my family through adversity. It’s a reflection of the legacy I want to leave behind – a legacy of strength, courage and determination to support my growing family as they navigate their own Juggling Acts. As I hold them close, I remind them of the love and commitment that bind us together as a family, whilst also instilling the belief that they too possess the strength and courage to pursue their own dreams and aspirations.
So, here’s to all working mums – the jugglers, the dreamers. Here’s to the late nights and early mornings, the missed milestones and countless sacrifices. Here’s to the women who dare to defy the odds and rewrite the script.
On International Women’s Day, as we celebrate the spirit and resilience of women worldwide, let us remember that the true essence of empowerment isn’t found in the absence of obstacles, but in the courage to face them head-on, armed with the belief that we hold the power to shape our own destinies.
Keep juggling, keep dreaming and keep shining. And remember, the show must go on!
Happy International Women’s Day!
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