Ambitious Like a Mother: Why Prioritizing Your Career Is Good for Your Kids

In her groundbreaking book, Lara Bazelon argues that mothers who prioritize their careers are not only good for themselves, but also for their children. Drawing on research and interviews with working mothers, Bazelon shows how career success can lead to increased happiness, better health, and stronger relationships for both mothers and their families.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you're a working mother, or if you're thinking about becoming one, this book is a must-read. Bazelon's research and insights will help you to:

• Understand the benefits of prioritizing your career
• Overcome the challenges of balancing work and family
• Make choices that are right for you and your family

What You'll Learn from This Book

In this book, you'll learn:

• How career success can lead to increased happiness, better health, and stronger relationships for mothers and their families
• The challenges of balancing work and family, and how to overcome them
• How to make choices that are right for you and your family
• How to advocate for yourself and your family in the workplace
• How to find support from other working mothers

Why Prioritizing Your Career Is Good for Your Kids

There are many reasons why prioritizing your career is good for your kids. Here are a few:

• It sets a positive example. When you show your children that you value your career, you're teaching them that it's important to work hard and achieve your goals.
• It gives you more financial security. A successful career can provide you with the financial security to give your children the best possible start in life.
• It allows you to be a role model. When you're successful in your career, you're a role model for your children. You show them that it's possible to achieve anything you set your mind to.
• It gives you more control over your life. When you have a successful career, you have more control over your life. You can make choices about where you live, what you do, and how you spend your time.

Overcoming the Challenges of Balancing Work and Family

Balancing work and family can be a challenge, but it's definitely possible. Here are a few tips:

• Set realistic expectations. Don't try to do everything yourself. Ask for help from your partner, family, and friends.
• Create a schedule that works for you. Make sure to schedule time for work, family, and yourself.
• Be flexible. Things don't always go according to plan. Be prepared to adjust your schedule as needed.
• Take care of yourself. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly.
• Find support from other working mothers. There are many resources available to working mothers. Find a support group or online forum where you can connect with other women who are facing similar challenges.

Making Choices That Are Right for You and Your Family

The decision of whether or not to prioritize your career is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer. The best decision is the one that's right for you and your family.

When making this decision, it's important to consider the following factors:

• Your own career goals
• Your family's needs
• Your financial situation
• Your support system

Once you've considered all of these factors, you can make a decision that's right for you and your family.

Advocating for Yourself and Your Family in the Workplace

As a working mother, you need to be able to advocate for yourself and your family in the workplace. Here are a few tips:

• Know your rights. Make sure you're familiar with the laws that protect working mothers.
• Be assertive. Don't be afraid to ask for what you need.
• Build relationships with your colleagues and supervisors. The more people you know, the more support you'll have.
• Find a mentor. A mentor can provide you with guidance and support as you navigate your career.

Finding Support from Other Working Mothers

There are many resources available to working mothers. Here are a few:

• Support groups: There are many support groups available for working mothers. These groups can provide you with a place to connect with other women who are facing similar challenges.
• Online forums: There are also many online forums where working mothers can connect with each other. These forums can be a great source of information and support.
• Books and articles: There are many books and articles available that can help you to navigate the challenges of balancing work and family.

Conclusion

Prioritizing your career is not selfish. It's good for you, and it's good for your kids. If you're a working mother, or if you're thinking about becoming one, I encourage you to read this book. It will change the way you think about work, family, and yourself.