Working Twice as Hard: The Real Struggles (and Wins) of Career Moms

The Big Question: Are Moms at a Disadvantage in their Careers?

The answer is a firm yes--but that's not the whole story.

Motherhood is beautiful and fulfilling, but let's not sugarcoat it: for many women, it changes the trajectory of their careers. From missed promotions to wage gaps and burnout, the working world still isn't built to fully support mothers.

But here's the hopeful truth: being a mom doesn't have to mean giving up your career dreams. Let's break down the facts, the challenges, and the strategies that help moms thrive--even in an uneven race.

📊 Our Research: What the Data Say

According to the 2023 report by McKinsey & Lean In, over the past nine years, women remain underrepresented in the corporate world. Progress remains slow at the manager and director levels. Women directors are leaving at a higher riate than in past years--and at a notably higher rate than men at the same level.

In the study, "The Impact of Motherhood on Women's Career Progression: A Scoping Review of Evidence-Based Interventions", the birth of the term "motherhood penalty" describes a variety of discriminatory practices and experiences that mothers can face at work, including wage gap and stricter rules on hiring and promotion. The percentage of moms struggling to advance in their career continues to rise.

These aren't just isolated cases. They reflect the lived experiences of millions of women who juggle childcare, emotional labor, and professional pressure every day.

😓 Common Career Struggles Moms Face

1. The Pause Penalty

   Taking a break for maternity leave--or stepping back for a few years to focus on childcare--often results in lost promotion, skill gaps, and being seen as "less committed."

2. Time Rigidity in Workplaces

   Most traditional jobs are built around 8-to-5 schedule. For moms managing school drop-offs, sick days, and childcare, it's nearly impossible to keep pace without support.

3. Bias and Assumptions

   Many moms report subtle discrimination being passed over for leadership roles or challenging projects because others assume they're "weak" or "very indecisive."

4. Guilt Tug-of-War

   Whether is missing a child's milestone or logging off early, many moms carry constant guilt--feeling like they're not doing enough at home or at work.

So what can moms do? Real Strategies that Work

Here is how moms can navigate the system without burning out or giving up:

✅ 1. Redefine Success on Your Own Terms

Your career doesn't need to look like everyone else's. Success might mean fewer hours, remote work, or launching your own business. Clarity is power.

✨ "I stopped chasing titles and started chasing freedom," says Ana, a mom of two who leaft the corporate life to build a thriving freelance writing career from home.

✅ 2. Invest in Skills that Work in Flexible Fields

Learning digital skills--like writing, marketing, data analysis, or design--can open doors to remote, high-paying opportunities. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning are full of affordable courses.

✨ Tanya, a single mom, learned social media management during her free time. Today, she earns monthly managing 3 small business accounts.

✅ 3. Speak Up for Flexibility

More companies are embracing hybrid setups. Don't be afraid to ask for a flexible schedule, reduced hours, or job sharing. Studies show that flexible workers are just as productive, if not more.

✅ 4. Build a Personal Brand

Create a LinkedIn presence or blog (like this one!) that showcases your strengths. When people know your value, they're more likely to trust your leadership--even if you're balancing it with motherhood.

✅ 5. Don't Go it Alone

Connect with other career moms. Facebook groups, local circles, and professional networks help women support each other through career transitions.

💪 Proof It's Possible: Moms Who Made It Work

💎 Sheryl Sandberg

Former COO of Facebook and author of Lean In, she often speaks about raising kids while leading at the highest levels--and fighting for women-friendly policies.

💎 Reshma Saujani

Founder of Girls Who Code, she became a mom mid-career and now champions the "Power of Imperfection" through her viral TED Talk and the Mom's First movement.

💎 Sara Blakely

The founder of Spanx built a billion-dollar empire while raising four kids. Her secret? Laser focus, delegation, and a team that support moms at all levels.

🌱 Final Thoughts: Yes, the Race is Harder--But You are Not Powerless

The system isn't fair--but you are far from helpless. With the right mindset, community, and strategy, you can reclaim your career journey--on your terms.

Don't let anyone (including that inner voice) tell you it's too late, too hard, or too selfish to want more.

✨ Remember: You are not behind--you are rising differently.

💬 Let's Talk!

Are you a career mom navigating these challenges? What has helped you push forward? Share your story with us--we'd love to feature more moms like you.

About the Author

Hi, I'm the voice behind the Wise Mama Life - a mom on a mission to make motherhood wiser, simpler, and more fulfilling. While I chose to keep my identify private to focus on the message rather than the messenger, every story, tip, and insight shared here is based on real-life experiences, heartfelt reflections, and practical wisdom gathered through years of motherhood, homemaking, and personal growth.

At Wise Mama Life, you'll find honest conversations, thoughtful parenting tips, life lessons from everyday moments, and gentle guidance to help us thrive - not just survive - as a parent.

I believe wisdom is in the little things. Let's grow together.

Follow along for more real talk, real tips, and real mama life.