A Hard Working Mom is the Ultimate Power Move

Working moms, it’s time to stop apologizing. You’re not just balancing a career and family—you’re rewriting the rules of what it means to be a woman in today’s world. If you’re feeling guilty about pursuing your career while raising your kids, let’s squash that guilt right here, right now. You’re not just working for a paycheck; you’re building a wealthier, happier, and healthier future for your entire family.

Let’s dive into why being a hard working mom is the ultimate power move, backed by research, financial insights, and a hefty dose of real talk.

7 Reasons Why Being a Hard Working Mom is the Ultimate Power Move

1. Financial Independence: You’re not just contributing to the household; you’re securing financial freedom and stability for your family.
2. Role Model Status: You’re showing your kids what ambition and hard work look like, teaching them valuable life lessons through your actions.
3. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Juggling work and family sharpens your ability to handle complex situations both at home and in the workplace.
4. Building a Strong Network: Balancing work and home life helps you create a robust support system, professionally and personally.
5. Breaking Gender Norms: By succeeding in your career while raising a family, you’re challenging outdated stereotypes and paving the way for future generations.
6. Personal Fulfillment: Working allows you to pursue your passions and maintain your sense of identity beyond motherhood.
7. Increased Resilience: Navigating the challenges of both work and family life builds mental and emotional resilience. This resilience not only benefits you personally but also sets a powerful example for your children on how to handle life’s ups and downs.

Redefining Work-Life Balance: It’s Not About Equal Time

First things first: work-life balance isn’t about splitting your time equally between work and home. That’s a myth we need to ditch. Instead, it’s about prioritizing what matters most in the moment. Life has seasons—sometimes your career will demand more of you, and other times your family will. Embrace the ebb and flow instead of fighting it. As a working mom, you’re living proof that balance isn’t about perfection; it’s about making conscious choices that align with your values.

Studies show that workplaces are adapting to this reality, with more flexible schedules and remote work options becoming the norm. This isn’t just a perk—it’s a game-changer for hard working moms who are juggling multiple roles​ (InHerSight).

Dual Incomes: The Real Secret to a Happier, Wealthier Household

Let’s talk money. Dual-income households aren’t just wealthier—they’re also happier and less stressed. Financial stability gives you the freedom to invest in your kids’ futures, from better education to extracurricular activities that help them thrive. Plus, when you’re not constantly stressed about money, you’re a better parent and partner.

Research shows that kids from wealthier households, where both parents are present and actively involved, tend to perform better academically and are less likely to experience the negative effects of economic hardship. So the next time someone tries to guilt you for working, remind them that you’re not just working for today—you’re securing a better tomorrow for your entire family.

Building Wealth Together: One major financial milestone that dual-income households often achieve more easily is homeownership. If you’re exploring how to make the most of your combined income to purchase a home, check out my guide on marriage and homeownership. It covers essential tips on aligning your financial goals as a couple and making smart decisions in the housing market, all of which contribute to building a stable and prosperous future for your family.

Emergency Fund: Build a robust emergency fund that covers 6-12 months of expenses. However, if you’re a high earner or a homeowner, you might need to save even more. High earners often take longer to find new jobs, and your emergency fund should reflect that reality. For a detailed breakdown on how much you should be saving, especially if you’re making more money or own a home, check out my article on preparing for unexpected challenges. It explains why your emergency fund should be tailored to your income level and home market value, ensuring you’re financially prepared for any setbacks.

The Financial Repercussions of Leaving the Workforce

While staying home with your kids is a personal choice many mothers consider, it’s important to understand the financial repercussions. Leaving the workforce for even a short period can have long-term consequences on your financial future. Here’s a breakdown:

• Net Worth Sacrificed: Dear working moms, leaving the workforce for just one year can decrease your net worth by 22% if you typically save 15% of your income. Three years? You could be looking at a 63% reduction. For example, if you’re on track to retire with $3 million, taking three years off could reduce that to just $1.1 million by age 65—assuming a 15% savings rate. The illustration below highlights this sensitivity and shows how much your net worth could be impacted by different time periods out of the workforce.

Yes, 63% sounds like a lot, and it’s easy to think it can’t be that severe. But in reality, it is, because you’re forgoing not just your income. You are forgoing the opportunity to save and invest during crucial years—typically your prime childbearing years in your 20s and into your 30s. This means you’re missing out on the compounding of those savings and investments over 30-40 years, which significantly impacts your net worth at retirement.

There’s a triple penalty here: 1) not earning an income for a period of time, 2) dipping into savings to cover your living expenses, and 3) losing out on compounding those forgone savings for another 30+ years. This measurable penalty is significant, and there are also immeasurable lost opportunities for career growth in both your title at work and your compensation. If you’re leaving a high-salary job, replacing that job later may be difficult. For more details, check out our article on how long it can take to replace a high salary job.

Companies Should Advocate for Your Success

Being a hard working mom in 2024 isn’t all work with no play. Companies should be advocates for your success. It’s the year 2024—and if your company doesn’t offer family leave for both mother and father… then BYE Felicia—shame on them. Family leave for both parents is a must for the working mom equation to work out.

Pro Tip: Consider stacking your leave with your partner’s. For example, if your company offers 10 weeks of paid family leave and your husband’s company offers 8 weeks, consider taking turns. You could take your leave first, followed by your partner’s, allowing you to delay childcare and ease the transition back to work.

Setting Clear Expectations and Boundaries with Your Manager

Establishing a healthy work-life balance requires clear communication with your manager. If you know that mornings (e.g., 7-9 a.m.) are hectic at home, share that with your manager. Establish a work schedule that allows you to be fully present for both your family and your job.

Pro Tip: Have a candid conversation with your manager about your availability and boundaries. Setting clear expectations helps ensure that your work and family life don’t collide, making it easier to focus on the task at hand—whether that’s a meeting at 9 a.m. or getting your kids ready for school.

Tools to Help with Mom Guilt

Mom guilt is real, and it can be overwhelming. One book that has helped us release those spiraling thoughts is Let That Sh*t Go: Find Peace of Mind and Happiness in Your Everyday. This book offers practical advice on how to find happiness in your everyday life. It doesn’t specifically address parenting and motherhood, but it drives home the idea of respecting yourself and accepting that certain things are outside of your control.

High-Level Thoughts: The book encourages readers to focus on small, achievable goals that bring joy and fulfillment. By shifting your mindset to celebrate the small wins, you can release some of the guilt and anxiety that is all around us. It’s about finding balance and letting go of perfection.

Overcoming Mom Guilt: Own Your Choices

Mom guilt? Let’s banish it. Here’s the truth: you’re doing an incredible job, and your kids are better off because of it. Studies have shown that children of working moms grow up to be more independent and successful. They learn by watching you navigate your career, tackle challenges, and still make time for them.

Instead of comparing yourself to others or trying to meet impossible standards, focus on what works for your family. You don’t need to attend every school event or bake cookies from scratch to be a good mom. Sometimes store-bought cupcakes and a little Netflix are exactly what everyone needs.

The Professional Benefits of Parenthood: Super Skills for Super Moms

Let’s not forget that motherhood has equipped you with a set of skills that are invaluable in the workplace. Multitasking, patience, problem-solving—these are all things that make you a better employee, manager, or business owner. In fact, many companies are starting to realize that working moms bring unique strengths to the table.

So don’t downplay your experience as a mom when it comes to your career. Own it. You’re not just managing a household; you’re leading a team, negotiating deals, and balancing budgets—both at home and work.

Q&A: Common Questions Hard Working Moms Ask

Q: How do I explain to my kids why I work?

• A: First, ask yourself—would your kids ask DAD the same question? Probably not, and that’s a testament to how gender roles are perceived. Explain that working is a way for you to contribute to your family and that it’s also something that brings you fulfillment. Advocate for gender equality, especially if you’re raising daughters. You’re showing them that women can be both nurturing and ambitious. Also, take the opportunity to teach your kids about your industry and job. After all, one of the most popular questions in school is, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

Q: How can I stop feeling guilty about not spending enough time with my kids?

• A: Focus on quality over quantity. Studies show that what matters most is how you engage with your children, not the number of hours you spend with them. Make the time you do have count by being fully present.

Q: How do I manage work stress without bringing it home?

• A: Set clear boundaries between work and home life. When the workday ends, create a ritual—like a brief walk or meditation session—to mentally transition from work mode to family mode.

Q: How can I involve my partner more in parenting without feeling like I’m nagging?

• A: Communication is key. Sit down with your partner and discuss responsibilities openly. Create a shared schedule or list of tasks so that both of you are on the same page. Remember, it’s a partnership, not a solo mission—don’t be afraid to delegate!

Q: What should I do when I feel overwhelmed by everything?

• A: When overwhelm hits, pause and prioritize. What’s most important right now? Focus on one task at a time, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Remember, taking breaks isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s necessary for sustaining your energy and well-being.

Conclusion: Empowerment, Advocacy, and Financial Freedom

Here’s the bottom line: Being a hard working mom isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. You’re setting an example for your kids, securing your family’s financial future, and challenging outdated gender norms. Remember that life has seasons—sometimes your career will demand more of you, and other times your family will. Embrace this ebb and flow as a natural part of your journey.

It’s time to ditch the guilt, embrace the chaos, and take pride in everything you’re accomplishing. So go ahead, take life by the horns, and show the world that being a working mom is the ultimate power move. Your family is better off for it, and so are you.

Call to Action: If you like our content, check out our comprehensive guide on how to support new moms. Whether you’re a new mom yourself or someone looking to provide support, this guide is packed with actionable tips to help navigate the journey.