Five tips to navigate the challenge of balancing fertility treatment and career ambitions

Striking a balance between fertility treatment and a thriving career will likely present many challenges. Often, it feels like the weight of these two important aspects of life is overwhelming, leading to a sense of losing control. The pressure to choose between professional aspirations and personal dreams can lead to difficult decisions and many of my clients see only two options - to keep it a secret or to quit their job. However, it's important to remember that there is a middle ground where you can embrace both your career and your desire to start or grow your family.

As a Career and Fertility Coach and Expert, I support my coaching clients to get their careers back on track, reignite their spark for life and get back in the drivers seat to make decisions about every aspect of their lives.

Here are my top tips to help women balance their career goals and fertility treatment, while embracing a brighter future both professionally and personally.

Imagine your best possible life, professionally and personally, under the current circumstances

When you’re knee deep in the challenges of fertility treatment, it's important to keep your dreams alive and remember you are more than just your egg count. Take time to imagine your ideal life, envisioning a future where both your career and personal aspirations are fulfilled. This powerful exercise can guide you towards making choices that align with your long-term vision. What one step can you take today to move towards that vision?

Ask yourself what is within your control

During fertility treatment, it's essential to recognise and focus on the elements within your control. While you may not have control over the outcome of your treatment, you can control how you respond mentally to the process. Embracing the controllable aspects can help create a positive mindset while freeing up headspace to focus on the things that matter.

Boost your bounce-back-ability

Resilience is essential to help you deal with the ups and downs of fertility treatment while maintaining a thriving career. Take deliberate steps to really look after yourself so that if you take a knock you’re not completely bowled over. Organise activities that lift your spirit, celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and be extra kind to yourself during challenging moments. Consider what it is about your career that you love, what gives you confidence, and do more of those things. By continually replenishing your resilience reserves, you'll be better equipped to face the demands of both your career and fertility treatment and bounce back from the knocks.

Create your career and fertility Board of Directors

Supportive relationships are more important then ever when navigating the complexities of fertility treatment. Surround yourself with friends, family, colleagues, people who have been through something similar and fertility professionals to provide encouragement, understanding, information and a safe space to express your emotions and bounce ideas around. Share your journey with those you trust and be clear on what you need from them.

Seek professional help

Embarking on a fertility treatment journey while managing a career takes its toll. But you’re not alone. Professional guidance from fertility specialists, counsellors, or coaches who specialise in supporting women through this will really help. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Balancing fertility treatment and a fulfilling career may seem like an overwhelming task, but by implementing these five empowering tips, you can take charge of your journey and move forward. Lean into what you can control, imagine your best possible life, be super kind to yourself, build a supportive network, and seek professional guidance.

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A version of this article was originally published in Female Health & Fertility