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Finding a harmonious equilibrium between work and personal life is a common struggle for many individuals. Balancing family, work, health, leisure, and personal development is crucial, yet achieving this balance can be daunting as we often allocate more attention to certain areas, neglecting others. This imbalance frequently results in stress and dissatisfaction, with women facing even greater challenges in maintaining this equilibrium.
In today’s dynamic world, the portrayal of the modern woman is intricate and varied. Women now seamlessly transition between multiple roles, encompassing familial responsibilities as daughters, sisters, mothers, wives, aunts, nieces, and friends, while also engaging in professional capacities as employers, employees, and colleagues. However, one of the most formidable hurdles encountered by contemporary women, especially as they navigate the realms of motherhood and confront the choice between family and career, is the delicate task of attaining a harmonious work-life balance.
When striving to balance work and family obligations, personal well-being, health, and relaxation often take a back seat for women, leaving little to no time for self-care. For many women, relaxation becomes a shift in activities: a brief respite from family duties while at work, and a moment of relief from professional demands while at home.
The challenge of reconciling professional duties with familial responsibilities often leads to conflicting priorities. Unlike the technical skills taught in educational institutions, the art of harmonizing the intricate roles of a wife, mother, and dedicated professional is seldom addressed in formal education. This gap may stem from historical legacies, such as the Soviet era, which encouraged women to enter the workforce to support the nation’s development. While women began contributing financially, traditional expectations of women managing household affairs persisted, exacerbating societal stereotypes and adding to the stress and pressure felt by women striving to fulfill diverse roles.
Working mothers encounter a unique set of obstacles in the professional realm. Biases against their commitment to work, assumptions about their availability outside regular hours, and potential absences due to family responsibilities can create barriers in the workplace, amplifying their stress and challenges. The intricate balance between work and motherhood, influenced by societal norms and workplace dynamics, often forces women to make tough decisions in their pursuit of excellence in both spheres.
Drawing from personal experience as a working mother in public service, I can attest to the struggles faced by women endeavoring to navigate the intricate dance between work and family life. The clash between societal expectations and familial duties often necessitates introspection and adjustments to achieve a fulfilling balance.
In my journey, a pivotal moment arose when I realized the need for change. Working late one evening, consumed with worry about picking up my son from kindergarten before closing time, I recognized the necessity for a shift in priorities. Despite initial skepticism from colleagues, I embarked on a path that allowed me to excel professionally while dedicating more time to my family, particularly my children.
The pursuit of work-life balance is a subjective and evolving process. It is not about achieving a static equilibrium but about discerning priorities at different life stages. As my children matured and required less direct attention, my equilibrium point shifted accordingly. Adapting to changing circumstances and priorities is essential in maintaining this delicate balance.
By sharing my story, my aim is not to offer a universal solution but to encourage women to listen to their inner voice and address areas of discomfort. Ignoring these signals can lead to dissatisfaction and burnout. The key lies in seeking solutions that align with individual priorities at each juncture. Empowering women to navigate the complexities of modern life, striking a balance between professional fulfillment and personal well-being, is a journey of self-discovery and resilience.