As we applaud the shift towards flexible working conditions, it's crucial to recognise that flexibility alone isn't the panacea for working #mothers.
To the working mama who juggles 'flexible' hours but still feels unfulfilled, overwhelmed, and undervalued—you are seen. Your struggles validate a greater need beyond just adaptable work hours.
To employers who champion flexible schedules yet observe declining performance and morale, it’s a signal to delve deeper. Flexible working conditions are undoubtedly vital and appreciated, but they are just one piece of the puzzle.
The real challenge lies in ensuring mothers are well-equipped to thrive within those hours which can significantly reduce absenteeism, curb the hidden costs of presenteeism, and boost confidence and productivity. Truly enabling a mother to succeed on their terms within those hours.
This is true now but is going to become even truer in the future with the emergence of Alpha mothers—mental health and wellbeing focused, tech-savvy, and high-expectation (regarding their workplace) mothers—marking a pivotal shift. This generation not only demands flexibility but also expects comprehensive support for their emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing. They envision a workplace that respects them as individuals and mothers first, appreciates their different phases of life and nurtures a supportive work-family environment.
The transition into motherhood is profound. The employee who returns from maternity leave isn't the same person who left. Her responsibilities, health, relationships, and worldview have transformed. This underscores the necessity for a holistic approach to support that aligns with her new reality not just whilst on maternity leave but when she steps back into the workplace to.
As business leaders, we must broaden our support frameworks to genuinely empower our largest untapped talent pool. Post-maternity, a woman’s professional journey is far from over. In fact, roughly two-thirds of her working life remains, yet 37% of all mothers feel isolated when they return to work and consider leaving their job. It’s high time we build a workplace that not only adapts but also actively supports and celebrates this significant life transition.
Your business, and the mothers it employs, deserve more.
Let’s commit to making the workplace a truly supportive environment for every working mother.
Your feedback and ideas on how we can improve are invaluable—let's open up this crucial conversation.
