If you're reading this, chances are you're a mom like me trying to juggle a million balls in the air - kids, career, home life, and everything in between. And if you're an ambitious woman with big dreams, you've probably felt that nagging question pop up in your mind more than once: can I really "have it all" and be a successful CEO or entrepreneur while being a devoted, present mom?
Growing up in a household, I witnessed firsthand how my mother was a natural leader, even when my father was mostly busy handling the business. To this day, this memory inspires me to the core. Thankfully, this duality of being a mother as well as a leader never existed for me.
In a positive development, the business world is much more accepting of women business leaders in general because of the skills that they surely bring to the table, even while raising children. Whether it's managing a demanding client or a fussy baby, keeping a closet organized or running a company efficiently, women possess essential skills that are invaluable in both personal and professional settings.
Debunking the Myth
Let's talk about a myth that's been around for far too long: the idea that women have to choose between their career, their dreams, and their children. More precisely for women, that they can be a successful career woman or a devoted mother this old-school notion really underestimates the incredible ability women have to balance and multitask. The truth is, women everywhere are showing that it's completely possible to succeed in all these areas at the same time.
This myth is not only patently false but also perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes that have long hindered the progress of women in various spheres of life. There are so many amazing examples of women who are crushing it as CEO moms, from celebrities like Serena Williams and Jessica Alba to game-changing founders all over the world, and even in our Indian states.
The multifaceted skills and qualities required to be an effective leader and a nurturing parent are remarkably overlapping, and the challenges encountered in each domain can serve to strengthen and refine one's abilities in the other.
With more flexible workplaces, supportive partners, and creative childcare options, pursuing professional goals while being a great mom is becoming more and more achievable. It's all about flexibility, resourcefulness, and having a society that truly supports the diverse roles women play. By letting go of this myth, we empower women to chase their dreams without feeling guilty and open up a path to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
My Personal Journey
Being at my workplace is the most gratifying part of my day. I thrive on the fast-paced environment and the constant stream of new challenges. But the true joy comes from collaborating with our talented team. Together, we brainstorm solutions and see them come to life, making a real difference for our clients. From my very first day at PMR to today, I am filled with pride and motivation for the journey we've embarked on. We've streamlined our operations, expanded our client base, and fostered a more inclusive company culture.
In India, it's uncommon to see women in roles that involve dealing directly with vendors and labour. When I stepped into the role of CEO at PM Relocations, the industry was predominantly led by men with experiences vastly different from my own.
However, engaging with people at all levels within my company has been incredibly enriching. It has allowed me to deeply understand the challenges we face and to approach problem-solving with creativity and empathy. This hands-on involvement has not only helped me grow professionally but has also enriched my leadership style.
Throughout this journey, balancing work and family has been demanding but incredibly rewarding. The skills I honed as a CEO – resilience, creativity, and effective communication – have translated beautifully into my personal life. And conversely, the empathy and patience I've developed as a mother have made me a more compassionate and understanding leader.
Balancing these two important aspects of my life has been challenging yet rewarding. I have evolved significantly in my role, but I also recognize that there is still a long way to go. The road ahead is filled with opportunities for further growth and transformation, both for myself and for PM Relocations.
Strategies for Success
While the path to achieving harmony between motherhood and entrepreneurship is undoubtedly challenging, there are strategies that can help pave the way to success:
Cultivate a robust support network: No woman is an island, and trying to navigate both roles alone is a recipe for burnout. Surrounding yourself with a network of trusted friends, family members, childcare providers, and mentors who can offer support, advice, and occasional respite is crucial.
Prioritize self-care: As a mother and an entrepreneur, it is easy to neglect your own well-being in the pursuit of meeting the needs of others. However, maintaining your physical and mental health through practices such as exercise, mindfulness, and adequate rest will ensure you have the energy and clarity to excel in both roles.
Embrace flexibility: The demands of motherhood and entrepreneurship are constantly evolving, and being rigid in your approach will only lead to frustration. Cultivate the ability to adapt, pivot, and adjust your strategies as circumstances change, and be willing to let go of perfection in favor of progress.
Leverage technology and outsourcing: In today's digital age, there are numerous tools and services available that can streamline processes, automate tasks, and alleviate the burden of certain responsibilities. Judiciously leveraging these resources can free up precious time and energy for the aspects of your roles that truly require your personal attention.
Celebrate your victories, however small: The journey of a "mompreneur" is often marked by a series of small triumphs amidst the larger challenges. Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate these victories, as they will serve as fuel to propel you forward on the more arduous days.
The Future is Bright
As more and more women shatter the glass ceilings of various industries and redefine the boundaries of what is possible, the narrative surrounding the compatibility of motherhood and entrepreneurial success is undergoing a profound shift. We are witnessing the emergence of a new generation of women who refuse to be confined by antiquated expectations or forced to choose between their personal and professional aspirations.
It is an exciting time, one in which the challenges of being a mother and a CEO are increasingly recognized not as insurmountable obstacles but as opportunities for personal growth, innovation, and the creation of a more equitable and inclusive world for all.
To my fellow mompreneurs and aspiring women entrepreneurs, I encourage you to embrace the journey ahead with confidence, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your ability to shape your own destiny. The road may be winding, but the rewards of simultaneously nurturing your family and your professional dreams are immeasurable.
Onwards and upwards, my friends.
