A recent post shared widely on social media captures the overwhelming pressures faced by working mothers in today’s society. Balancing a career while raising children is a daunting task, whether it’s driven by financial necessity or a passion for one’s profession. One mother of three, Lisa Harper, articulately expresses the emotional turmoil surrounding these challenges and societal expectations.
Harper begins, “Society tells working mothers to return to work just 6-8 weeks after bringing a child into the world—the child you nurtured for 9-10 months. Go back to work before you’re fully healed or have had a moment to bond with your newborn. Focus on your job, while someone else cares for your precious baby.”
She goes on to discuss the added pressure that working moms often face to “shatter the glass ceiling” and prove their capabilities in the workplace. “You can accomplish anything a man can! It’s your responsibility to demonstrate this to the world!” Harper asserts. “Show everyone that women can juggle it all.”
The post also touches on the unrealistic expectations placed on women to breastfeed, regain their pre-pregnancy bodies, and maintain a picture-perfect home. “Make sure to take down the holiday decorations. Recycle. Be Santa, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy. Organize birthday parties, manage conflicts, and find lost toys,” she continues. “Be the fun one. Be the disciplinarian. Read stories. Have dance parties.”
Harper highlights that often, women are the primary organizers in their households. “Planning birthday parties? Don’t forget presents. And remember—kids need to dress as their favorite characters next week and wear yellow on Thursday. It’s your choice, but most parents read to the class on their child’s birthday,” she jokes, though the reality is far from humorous in the competitive motherhood landscape. The constant comparison with seemingly flawless other moms can be exhausting.
Furthermore, working mothers are tasked with remembering numerous appointments and school events, all while managing full-time jobs. “At least two parent conferences a year, IEP meetings if needed, and various school nights,” she lists. And don’t overlook self-care, vacations, and quality time with friends and family.
And let’s not forget about nurturing our relationships. “Don’t forget to date your partner! It’s crucial to keep that spark alive,” Harper advises. “Try to go out 1-2 times a month, but hiring a sitter can cost more than you expect. You might need to take out a second mortgage just to afford it!”
If that doesn’t wear you out, she reminds us to find time for hobbies, stay updated with current events, and prepare wholesome meals for our families. Harper’s post quickly gained traction, and she expressed surprise at its virality, saying, “It’s surreal. I think so many women relate to this, which is why it resonates widely.”
Indeed, motherhood is consuming, and even those who don’t work outside the home can see themselves reflected in Harper’s words. Many mothers are exhausted from the relentless pursuit of “doing it all.” “These are the good times,” she concludes. “Cherish every moment because it passes faster than you think. Personally, I’m ready to step back and take a breather.”
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Summary:
A viral post by Lisa Harper highlights the unrealistic expectations placed on working mothers, including the pressures to excel at work, maintain perfect homes, and nurture relationships, all while managing their children’s needs. The post resonates with many women who feel overwhelmed by the pursuit of doing it all.