Why Your Career Isn’t Over Just Because You Have Kids—But It Might Feel Like It

I’ve had those days where I feel like my career is slipping through my fingers like sand. The days when balancing work with the never-ending demands of parenting feels like an impossible feat?

Yeah, I get it. As a parent of five kids under 10—including a newborn—I know exactly what it’s like when your career feels like a distant memory, a luxury you can't afford.

But here's the thing: Your career isn’t over just because you have kids. It just looks different now. And that’s okay.

The Myth of the “Perfect Balance”

Let’s debunk the myth right off the bat: There’s no such thing as perfect balance. If you’re waiting for the day when everything will align flawlessly—where you’ll be the perfect parent and the perfect professional—it’s time to stop.

Life with kids is messy, unpredictable, and often chaotic, and trying to balance it all perfectly is a recipe for burnout.

Instead, think of your career and parenting like a see-saw. Sometimes, work will be the heavier side, demanding more of your time and energy.

Other days, your kids will need you more, and work will have to take a backseat. The key is not to achieve balance in every moment but to ride the ups and downs without losing sight of what matters most.

Embrace the Power of Micro-Wins

You might feel like you're not making any significant progress because you’re not closing deals or hitting major milestones daily and some colleagues may make you feel this way too.

But here’s the truth: Micro-wins are just as important.

Whether it’s finishing that report before the baby wakes up or squeezing in a quick brainstorming session during nap time—celebrate these small victories. They add up.

I’ve found that focusing on these micro-wins keeps me motivated. It’s easy to feel like you’re not accomplishing much when the big wins are few and far between. But every small step forward is still a step forward, and that’s worth celebrating.

Setting Boundaries—And Sticking to Them

It’s easy to let work bleed into your personal life, especially when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities. But setting boundaries is crucial.

When you’re with your kids, be with your kids. When you’re working, give it your full attention. It’s not about shutting out one part of your life but about being fully present in whichever role you’re playing.

For me, this means turning off email notifications during family dinners or setting aside time early in the morning to focus on my work without interruptions.

Find what works for you and protect that time fiercely.

Lean on Your Support System

You don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s a partner, a friend, or a colleague, lean on your support system. Ask for help when you need it. Remember, it’s okay to admit that you can’t do it all by yourself. In fact, recognising when you need support is a strength, not a weakness.

In our household, my spouse and I have a system that helps us tag-team when things get overwhelming. It’s not perfect, and sometimes we still drop the ball, but knowing that we’ve got each other’s backs makes all the difference.

The Long Game: Your Career is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Finally, remember that your career is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be seasons in your life when your career takes center stage and others when parenting demands more of you.

And that’s okay. What matters is the long-term game, where both your family and career thrive, even if not simultaneously.

I’ve had to remind myself of this often, especially when it feels like I’m making little to no progress. But every effort counts, and in the grand scheme of things, the sacrifices and adjustments I make today will contribute to the bigger picture tomorrow.

Conclusion: Keep Going—You've Got This

So, if it feels like too much right now, take a deep breath. Your career isn’t over; it’s just evolving. Embrace the chaos, celebrate the micro-wins, and don’t forget to lean on your support system.

This journey isn’t easy, but you’re more resilient than you think.

And if you ever need a reminder, know I’m right there with you, navigating the same stormy seas. We’ve got this.

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Because let’s face it—being a working parent is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone.