Advice for Working Moms (HBR Working Parents Series)

INTRODUCTION

Managing the Working-Mom Job

by Daisy Dowling

“I’m covered in applesauce but making this happen!”

This statement of pride and resilience came from a mom I recently spoke with. As working mothers, we’ve all had these moments when everything may not go to plan, but we get it done. Yet most often in my coaching conversations with working mothers, I also hear about questions, doubts, stresses, and fears of various kinds.

I’ve come to think of it as “the pivot,” the moment when an individual moves from telling me outward facts about themselves—their career accomplishments, tenure within their organizations, number of kids, their ages, and so forth—and about how they’re “getting through,” and begins talking about their real-deal thoughts ...