Despite the many gender inequities that exist in our country, women in Western society have access to more privileges than many others. As women, we can drive, vote and leave the house unchaperoned by a man (which are things some women across the world still have to deal with). We can go to work if we choose, and the pay gap between men and women, while still inequitable, voices are being heard, and in some cases, changes are being implemented. However, as a woman, we are still at a disadvantage when it comes to our careers and one area, in particular, involves the decision to have children. This decision often results in women needing to take time off and in many cases being placed on a “mommy track.” At home, we as women, even when we are working mothers,  still tend to be the primary caregiver to our children. However, with all of that said, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible to ‘have it all,’ and as a woman, you most definitely can have kids and career and here are some of the ways you can make it happen.

Have Kids Later On

Many women are choosing to postpone having children and using the time to get established in their career. It is the belief of some that because they are more established in their careers, their leave from the workplace has less of an impact on their career status. That is a debatable philosophy, and such decisions come with other complications. This is indeed a personal decision and one that every woman with interest in child-bearing must take seriously.

Alternative Work Schedule

Instead of plunging back into a full-time schedule upon returning as a working mother, many women opt for an alternative work arrangement. Speak to your employer and find out if this is an option for you. Such a schedule would allow you to maintain your business connections, while still having time for your new arrival.
Easing back into the workspace as a working mother is a wise thing to do after having a baby for a number of other reasons. Women who choose to breastfeed for example may be concerned about issues such as leaking milk and even incontinence. However, thankfully there are plenty of great breastfeeding accessories and incontinence products available on the market for these situations.

Become The Boss

Working for yourself allows you to be flexible with everything in your life. You’re the boss, so you make the rules and work the hours that are best-suited for you. Start your own consulting business, become a social media manager if that’s where your skillset is best. If you’re highly-organized and love to write, consider becoming a virtual assistant or a blogger. The opportunities are endless for a high-achieving woman.

Be Flexible About Your Career PathMany working women become working mothers. Time management skills factor heavily into your ability to manage home and careers -but it can be done. That high-powered, stressful, yet well-paid job you held before becoming a Mom might be less appealing once you’ve had a baby, and you might prefer to go with something less demanding. What was important to you once might feel a bit different after having a child. Maybe not. The most important thing to remember is that motherhood is not where dreams go to die, and you can be a great Mom, while still pursuing your career goals. Be the woman you’ve always wanted to be, on your terms, not society’s. Good luck and congratulations!

 
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