Happy Mother’s Day
An Interview with GROWTH Community Contributor
Kathryn Millard
To celebrate Mother’s Day and honor the moms in our community, we interviewed one of our GROWTH Community members, Kathryn Millard to learn about her experience as a working mom.
What has been the most challenging part of balancing motherhood and your career?
For me, the consistent fear of falling short either on either being fully engaged and present as a mom or being a professional that succeeds is the hardest part of motherhood. I want to give myself fully to each, and it can be challenging to do both. It can also be challenging to balance the “mental load” of motherhood and having a career.
What is your favorite thing about being a mom?
I love watching my sons grow and learn – they have the sweetest and funniest little personalities. They are real people! It’s a privilege to call them mine – I am so lucky. It’s also a joy to have experiences through their eyes – let me tell you, bubbles are a BIG deal!
Can you define what work-life balance means for you?
When I’m with my kids, I am with my kids and try my best to fully give myself to them. I read somewhere that you should spend time with your kids as if you were going back in time (as if they were currently adults and all grown up), and you get to be with them for one more day and enjoy them while they are little. It’s allowed me to be more present and engaged with them. It’s emotional, as every day is the biggest they’ve ever been and the smallest they will ever be.
What has worked for you and what hasn’t while working from home as a mom?
What works: My office is separate from our “living space,” so when I’m in my office, I am fully present at work. When I’m not in my office, I am fully present with my kids (or try my best to be).
What doesn’t work: Overwhelming myself with the to-do list – I try to make lists and prioritize with my days while also trying to have quality time with my husband, our dog, and myself!
What is a piece of advice you have for mothers in the workplace?
Ensure you make time for yourself, which I know can be challenging. It can feel like you’re constantly giving, but I’ve found my mental health is better if I spend time with just myself (or dinner/pedicure/spa with a friend). You matter.
Anything else you would like to share with the community?
I’ve learned that comparison is the thief of joy. Every child develops at their own speed and has different strengths and challenges. Stay focused on your child’s journey and celebrate every moment of learning and growing. Advocating for them is the most important job I will ever have.
Thank you to Kathyrn for sharing her thoughts and Happy Mother’s Day to all of GROWTH Community moms. Please join the conversation and share any advice or questions you have for the community.
Kathryn Millard is an Executive Recruiter for SearchWide Global.
