The Leadership Balancing Act: How to Embrace Chaos and Thrive as a Mom Boss
As a working mom and a leader, I’ve come to understand that balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about learning to be fully present, whether in a high-pressure boardroom meeting or the joyful chaos of a family dinner. Over the years, I’ve learned that thriving as a mom boss means embracing the chaos, building meaningful connections, and finding harmony in the messiness of life.
The Myth of Having It All Together
Before I became a mother, I thought the key to success was “having it all together.” But the reality for any mom boss is far from picture-perfect. Between deadlines, school pick-ups, and personal time, there are days when achieving balance seems impossible. This was a myth I shattered early in my career, particularly when I was 36 weeks pregnant with my son, Matthew, and determined to close two significant real estate deals before his arrival.
One of the transactions involved a family buying their dream home in the suburbs, and I was committed to seeing it through. Just days before giving birth, I found myself driving across town to deliver closing documents that had to be filed that day. I felt the early contractions starting, but I pushed through, knowing how important this moment was for my clients. Looking back, it wasn’t about doing it all perfectly—it was about showing up and doing my best in each role.
Balance isn’t about perfection; it’s about making peace with the chaos and knowing which priorities need your focus.
Finding Leadership in Motherhood
Motherhood didn’t just shape my personal life—it fundamentally transformed me into a better leader. The patience I developed as a mom helped me stay calm under pressure in the workplace. I recall a time when my toddler threw a tantrum, and I had to take a deep breath before calmly responding. Little did I know this same patience would serve me well in my role as a leader, particularly when a frustrated team member needed my support.
Similarly, the active listening skills I’ve practiced at home—like hearing out my son when he’s upset—have become invaluable in the workplace. When my team feels heard and valued, they’re more productive and loyal. Motherhood has taught me the importance of leading with empathy, which has in turn fostered trust and collaboration in both my family and professional life.
Embracing Flexibility and Adaptability
Both parenthood and leadership demand adaptability. Life throws curveballs—whether it’s a toddler’s meltdown or a last-minute crisis with a client. One defining moment in my career was managing real estate deals while being weeks away from giving birth. I had to learn how to adapt on the fly—working through early contractions to ensure my clients’ deals went through.
Being flexible doesn’t mean compromising your standards; it means learning to shift and refocus without losing sight of your larger goals. Parenthood, much like leadership, is a balancing act of resilience and flexibility—learning when to bend without breaking.
The Power of Connection
Throughout my journey as a mom boss, I’ve realized that success—whether in leadership or motherhood—comes from building strong, authentic connections. Whether it’s reading to my children at night or leading a team meeting, the most important thing I can do is be present in the moment.
One story that comes to mind is about driving my son Matthew to college. As we made the long journey, we talked about life, his goals, and our bond. That car ride reminded me how important it is to make space for connection, both at home and at work. In leadership, just as in motherhood, fostering real connections strengthens relationships and helps those around you thrive.
Embracing the Imperfection of Balance
The truth about work-life balance for working moms is that it’s never perfect. Some days, work takes precedence, and other days, family does. There was a time when I sat in a hotel, stranded due to a delayed flight, trying to be there for both my son, who had been in an accident, and my daughter, who was experiencing her first heartbreak. I couldn’t physically be in two places at once, and that was a hard reality to face.
But over time, I learned to embrace this imperfection. What matters most is that I keep showing up, with love and resilience, accepting that I can’t do it all, but I can do what matters most in that moment.
You Are Enough
To all the working moms out there, you are enough. Whether you’re managing work deadlines or handling a bedtime routine, know that you are leading with strength and love. Embrace the messiness of life, celebrate your victories—big or small—and remember that you don’t have to choose between being a great leader and a great mom. You already are both.
Thank you for reading! If you’re a fellow mom boss juggling the challenges of leadership and motherhood, I’d love to hear your story. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and join The Balanced MomBoss community by subscribing to our newsletter for more tips, inspiration, and strategies to help you thrive!
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