She Strengthens

The Surprising Ways Parenthood Can Boost Your Career

Sleep deprivation and new priorities may have taken their toll, but don’t believe for a second that being a parent makes you less capable in the workplace. On the contrary, parenthood can be a game-changer for your career, honing your skills, increasing efficiency, and giving you a fresh perspective on what truly matters.

A Shift in Priorities: What Really Matters

When you become a parent, office politics and trivial matters suddenly seem inconsequential. With a family to care for, you develop a newfound ability to cut through the noise and focus on what’s truly important. This clarity of purpose translates to your work life, allowing you to prioritize tasks, manage your time more effectively, and make better decisions.

New Skills and Strengths

Parenthood is a crash course in communication, negotiation, problem-solving, organization, and adaptability. These skills are highly transferable to the workplace, making you a more valuable employee. Rather than viewing time out to raise a family as a career setback, consider it an opportunity to expand your skillset and bring new strengths to the table.

The Art of Multi-Tasking

Women are often naturally adept at multi-tasking, but parenthood takes this ability to new heights. Managing the needs of others 24/7 requires juggling multiple tasks simultaneously, making work-related multi-tasking a breeze by comparison. This increased capacity for handling multiple tasks at once can be a significant asset in the workplace.

Efficiency and Time Management

Returning to work part-time after having children can be a challenging transition. With less time available, you must become highly efficient at managing your workload and prioritizing tasks. This pressure to perform can actually be a blessing in disguise, forcing you to streamline your workflow, eliminate non-essential tasks, and achieve more in less time.

Embracing Your New Strengths

Being a parent is a transformative experience that can have a profoundly positive impact on your career. Don’t let anyone suggest that you’re anything less than brilliant. Instead, own your new strengths, skills, and perspectives, and watch your career thrive as a result.