I am a working mom to a wonderful 6 year-old daughter. My job is demanding - in responsibility, in scope, and in hours. My typical business trips are to New York, London, Mumbai, South Africa, Geneva, and Silicon Valley. I often work with heavy hitters from the business, non-profit, and philanthropy sectors. You might recognize some of their names - they appear in some of your major media outlets, or at the very least are highly Google-able. I absolutely love my work.
But recently, I think I have come face-to-face with the limits of my ambition. Travel is not nearly as attractive as it once was. I am equally tempted by staying home. In the last few weeks, I've been approached by some executive search firms for a few stunning opportunities. One, in particular, based in London, was especially tempting. But after a lovely lunch and talk with Dear Headhunter, I decided not to pursue it. No one is more shocked than I am. I have always, always wanted to live and work in Europe. This job, in particular, was a dream. But ultimately, I realized, I do not want to travel more, or work longer hours, or be farther away from my family and support network of friends and routines. Most of all, I did not want to give up precious time with my daughter or outsource my Mom responsibilities anymore than I already do. I've Mommy-Tracked myself.
It's an unusual Mommy Track, to be sure. I have not quit my job to stay at home (I couldn't anyway - no one else around here makes an income). I did not cut back on my hours or shift positions. I remain a pretty plugged-in, high-powered, intense-as-ever professional - and I intend to keep it that way. I still have goals and dreams, including somehow, one day to perhaps live again in a great European city, even for a short time. But at this time, these hopes, dreams, and ambitions have run smack into to my desire to be a mom - and recently, right here, for now, perhaps forever - I chose the Mommy Track.
But recently, I think I have come face-to-face with the limits of my ambition. Travel is not nearly as attractive as it once was. I am equally tempted by staying home. In the last few weeks, I've been approached by some executive search firms for a few stunning opportunities. One, in particular, based in London, was especially tempting. But after a lovely lunch and talk with Dear Headhunter, I decided not to pursue it. No one is more shocked than I am. I have always, always wanted to live and work in Europe. This job, in particular, was a dream. But ultimately, I realized, I do not want to travel more, or work longer hours, or be farther away from my family and support network of friends and routines. Most of all, I did not want to give up precious time with my daughter or outsource my Mom responsibilities anymore than I already do. I've Mommy-Tracked myself.
It's an unusual Mommy Track, to be sure. I have not quit my job to stay at home (I couldn't anyway - no one else around here makes an income). I did not cut back on my hours or shift positions. I remain a pretty plugged-in, high-powered, intense-as-ever professional - and I intend to keep it that way. I still have goals and dreams, including somehow, one day to perhaps live again in a great European city, even for a short time. But at this time, these hopes, dreams, and ambitions have run smack into to my desire to be a mom - and recently, right here, for now, perhaps forever - I chose the Mommy Track.
dont feel guilty by any means! Relationships like those with your daughter are the most important things in life! way to stay ambitious though!
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