A Working Mom

I have a new title to add to my "business card". I can now add Senior Marketing Analyst to my other titles of Chief Financial Officer, Chauffeur, Maid, Counselor, Cook, Dog Walker and Scheduler.

I have joined the world of working moms. Granted I have been working outside of the home for the last 10 years and at times that was pretty stressful. Yet I almost always picked my kids up from school and was home with them most of the summer. I could set my own schedule and over the last few years was able to have a few days off to myself during the week. Now I actually have a time clock (on my computer) that keeps track of my eight hour work day five days a week and there will not be extra time off in the summer to accommodate my children's schedule.

The boys are now 13 and 16 and while I know they still need their mom, they are also in the stage of separating themselves from me. Being the researcher that I am, I read several articles on the effects of a working mom on teen behavior and several studies showed it was not a factor in increased risk-taking behaviors. It is most important to be involved in their lives - communicate with them (or at least make a daily effort) and find ways to continue to nurture them (even when they think they don't need it). I believe that I can still do this even though I miss out on several hours in the afternoon. It will also require them to take on some additional responsibilities around the house, which can be a positive for teenage boys. They are now responsible for making dinner on Wednesday nights and after an initial resistance they are a bit excited about doing this (in their nonchalant teenage way).

While this is a hard transition for me in some ways it is also exciting. I am involved in a dynamic and sophisticated worldwide industry and will hopefully be able to make a substantial contribution to their marketing efforts. I know I will grow (am growing) intellectually and creatively. And - a bit more superficially - I get to dress professionally (i.e. shopping) and may have some amazing travel opportunities. Earning a full time salary will also be helpful! However I am still trying to figure out how to incorporate all the "me" things in this new schedule - grocery shopping, exercise, errands, hair appointments, and friend time. I need a few extra hours in each day.