One week before the one day of the year that we all give thanks, we thought we’d take a pass on the scoop, and instead offer a serving of some “chicken soup for the working mother soul.” We hope you find this nourishing. Happy Thanksgiving!

First, know this: as a working mother, you are not the exception you may feel you are– you are the RULE that spans history and civilizations.

Anthropologists note that in many parts of the world, across the ages, mothers have worked, peddling the family’s wares in the marketplace, for instance. In almost every other culture (and in fact, in most minority American cultures) “it takes a village” is the child-rearing norm. Mothers often don’t have the choice to stay home, yet their work is considered part of nurturing their family. In turn, the tribe, the extended family, others, are involved in the rearing of the children in a more communal, less isolated, less guilt-driven way.

Substantiating this, sociologists have found that the more solitary the mothering, the less tender the mothering! (not what some would have us believe, huh)? So bear this in mind, should a pang of guilt arise over whether you should stay exclusively at home with the children: by exposing your children to a loving babysitter, nurturing daycare, caregiving relatives… you are likely mirroring the very kind of child-rearing environment that has been proven to be the healthiest for children!

Your Work is Good for You… and It’s Good for Your Children

According to the author Joan K. Peters, “if mother is always there, she is neglecting her identity and growth, which puts her mothering in jeopardy. When women are fulfilled in themselves, they have more to give to children. And women today, raised to fulfill themselves intellectually, financially, and socially rarely feel complete if they give all that up.

“Moms who work are better models because they show their children that all people, men and women, get to have work, love, individuality, and family. If they see mothers pursuing “self,” it gives them permission to develop their individuality, without feeling guilty or sorry for the mom who gave hers up.”

So, for a moment, put thoughts of that disastrous meeting or the minimal school bake sale contribution aside, and be thankful. By empowering yourself, by fulfilling yourself, there is every reason to know in your hearts and minds that you are also doing a great deal to empower your children.

(Sourced from “When Mothers Work” by Joan K. Peters and familyeducation.com). Enjoyed this Momorandum? Forward it to your friends and colleagues! And keep checking back with us at www.executivemoms.com.

Sincerely,

Marisa Thalberg, President
Executive Moms