Vox pop: Balancing motherhood and work

In a family, the mother plays a critical role, which is a powerful force for connection and integration. The relationship between a mother and her child is indispensable for the healthy development of children. Being a mother is not only about being a caregiver; they are also breadwinners for their families.

Namita Thapa Budhaprithi, Brows & lash lift expert

My first child's name is Mia, who’s soon to be 4 years old and goes to nursery for 3 days a week. I am currently 36 weeks pregnant, me and my husband are eagerly waiting for our second child to be a part of our small and happy family. I am a brow and lash lift expert, running my own 2 businesses, Browsbynamee and Wowbrowbar in Bournemouth, United Kingdom. For me, being a mother is an amazing journey, although it’s not that easy. I love and cherish each and every stage of it and relish every bit of the moment with my little daughter. As a working mother who works constantly, it is hard but I feel very lucky to be able to work what I love. Running your own business makes your life a lot easier, you can choose your days off when you want to. I only work when Mia goes to nursery and for the rest of the days, we have fun family time together. As mothers, we need to come out from motherhood at least for a few days a week as it’s good for our mental health. Meeting new people will make you learn and explore yourself more. Trust me, you will appreciate it. Your body needs proper rest for you to function properly and don’t overthink about gaining weight or any other stuff. Just put yourself and your emotions first without thinking about what others will say.

Jeshina Thapa, Designer

Motherhood journey is challenging, yet beautiful. When your babies are at the age of around 2-3 years, they need extra care and full attention. Your time is not your time at all. I, my husband, and my son live with my in-laws in Bhairahawa, Rupandehi. My son, Anihsej is 2 years old now and I am thinking of running my own small business, handmade plastic pearls bags and dresses. Actually, I’ve started making one in my free time. Being a mother is extremely difficult; you’ve to work by planning, and you’ve to deal with your own problems effectively. After finishing my household work, I play with my son, feed him and then after he’s asleep, I start doing my work. That is the only actual time when most of the mothers get their me-time. To become a mother is not an easy job but not impossible. You’ve to be calm, don’t get frustrated and be positive. You’ll definitely be a great mother.

Aishka Shrestha, working as a part-timer in a restaurant

I live in Amsterdam, Netherlands with my husband and daughter, Manaslu, who’s just 4 months old. I have recently started going back to my work but for only 2 days a week. I couldn’t give my full time at work, so currently I am working as a part-timer in a restaurant. The day I go to work, my husband looks after our daughter as he has days off on the same days. For the remaining 5 days, I stay at home and my husband goes to work. That’s how we are balancing our time for our daughter. Sometimes it’s very exhausting with sleepless nights, but once I see Manaslu’s smiling face, I forget everything because it’s the best gift I’ve ever got. So, being a mother is exceptionally difficult, yet the best experience in the world.