New parenthood is considered the second major new role acquisition in adulthood after the acquisition of a partner
-Atkinson et al in Introduction of psychology-.
The transition to motherhood marks not only the birth of a child but also the emergence of a new identity for the woman. This profound shift encompasses a re-evaluation of priorities, values, and roles as women embrace the multifaceted responsibilities of motherhood. Navigating this new identity requires wisdom and consciousness, as it involves not only understanding oneself but also renegotiating relationships in various spheres of life.
New mothers, as well as mothers in general, often struggle to balance their career aspirations with the demands of home and childcare. Despite their dedicated efforts to succeed both as mothers and professionals, many feel overwhelmed by the challenges of nurturing their children, advancing their careers, and maintaining their identities as mothers and individuals. This constant juggling act leaves them feeling as though they are not coping well, with limited opportunities for self-recharge.
“If you want to make the pieces of life fit together, if you want to build a career, raise a family, and stay sane, it is hard to escape the conclusion that self-care is the secret ingredient.”
(Laura Vanderkam)
Despite our awareness of the importance of self-care and various attempts to practice it, self-care as a regular practice remains elusive for mothers. Balancing the responsibilities of caring for a family while also tending to one's own needs can feel overwhelming and time we spend on self-care is often marred by feelings of guilt and shame.
At The MotherHood, we believe that self-care isn't selfish—it's a vital aspect of maintaining harmony, integration, happiness and wellbeing in life. Self-care isn't solely about indulging in massages and hair appointments; rather, it encompasses a broader spectrum of practices aimed at nurturing your mental, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. By prioritising self-care, you replenish your own reserves, enabling you to effectively fulfill the various roles you undertake and positively influence the lives of those around you.
For the modern professional woman, balancing career aspirations with family responsibilities can be a daunting task. The MotherHood, offers resources, tips, and community support to help working mothers thrive in both their professional and personal lives. From career development advice to time management strategies, we're here to support you achieve success on your terms.
Empowering working mothers means recognising that challenges are not signs of failure, but signals for growth. Empowerment reconnects us with our inner strength, reminding us of our capability to navigate complex roles. When overwhelmed, we support each other, tapping into our personal power to overcome challenges. This collective empowerment helps us manage multiple roles, embracing the strain as a healthy part of our journey, reinforcing our resilience and capacity for growth.