Remembering Working Moms During the ‘Great Resignation’

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In early 2020, I had just started a new job that I had eagerly anticipated for months. After only three months of training, I was ready to dive into a role that promised benefits my family would greatly appreciate. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic began to unfold, I found myself stepping out of the office for the last time. As a mother of two, with my children now home all day, I had no choice but to leave the job I had longed for. Unfortunately, this scenario mirrors the experiences of many women across the nation.

From the spring of 2020 to today, millions have chosen to leave their jobs as the pandemic continues to reshape the workforce. In September alone, a staggering 4.4 million Americans resigned, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Shockingly, one in four American workers has quit their jobs within the past year. While various factors, such as workplace conditions and mental health, have prompted this mass exit, it’s crucial to highlight that many of these resignations have been driven by women, particularly mothers, who have had to make tough choices due to a lack of support.

Numerous reasons have led employees to leave their positions during these challenging times. Early in the pandemic, many expressed dissatisfaction with their work environments. Some employers failed to implement adequate safety protocols, leaving workers to reconsider their job options. Others found that traditional employment no longer suited their needs, while many simply felt overburdened and exhausted. For mothers, the situation became particularly dire.

According to a survey by Seramount, a consulting firm focused on workplace inclusion, about one in three mothers have left their jobs since the onset of the pandemic. While it may be tempting to attribute these departures to personal growth during lockdowns or a quest for better workplace conditions, the reality is stark: many mothers simply lack childcare options.

As schools shifted to remote learning, mothers suddenly found themselves juggling even more responsibilities. Alongside their professional roles, they became teachers, guiding their children through online platforms like Zoom and Google Classroom. Unfortunately, the burden of childcare often falls primarily on mothers, forcing many to resign when their children were home full-time. Balancing remote work with remote learning proved to be a challenge, especially for jobs that required minimal background noise and interruptions. For those in sectors like healthcare and retail, where remote work is not an option, resignation became the only feasible choice.

Today, as vaccination rates rise and schools reopen, one might expect mothers to return to work. However, many are still grappling with a severe shortage of daycare facilities. This issue predates the pandemic but has been exacerbated by staffing shortages and closures. Additionally, temporary school closures due to quarantine protocols continue to disrupt families’ routines, making it difficult for mothers to feel confident in returning to their jobs.

As we reflect on the Great Resignation, let’s not overlook the sacrifices made by mothers who have put their families first. We are the unsung heroes navigating these turbulent times.

For more insights into this topic, you might find it helpful to explore related articles on home insemination kits here, or check out expert resources from Make A Mom and NHS.

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In summary, the ‘Great Resignation’ has highlighted the challenges faced by working mothers, who often find themselves caught between professional aspirations and family responsibilities. As we discuss this phenomenon, it’s essential to acknowledge the unique struggles of mothers who have been forced to make difficult decisions during this unprecedented time.