(^90) | marieclaire.com.au
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We all know there’s no such
thing as work/life balance –
it’s a constant battle. Three
entrepreneurial mums
reveal how they juggle
successful businesses
with growing families
THE
JUGGLE
IS REAL
“In 2009, I left my old job [as a fashion buyer] to
start Palm Beach Collection and found out I was
pregnant with my first son the day after I resigned.
It was certainly an emotional challenge. I worked
through my pregnancy with both kids and didn’t
take any maternity leave. Our office was at our
house at that stage and I thought it would be easy.
I think it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.
The biggest challenge was that I was never really
able to switch off from work. I was back on my emails
in the hospital only a few hours after the birth! Trying
to breastfeed while entering orders, taking phone
calls, answering emails ... it was hard work. But at
that stage, the business was so young and needed
my attention, so I had no choice. Both my kids went
to a home day care at nine months and, after that,
life became more manageable. I think for families
with both parents working, it’s an ongoing battle
and you never quite get the right balance.
My husband and I always said, ‘Our kids will
fit into our life,’ but we quickly found out this wasn’t
the case at all. They don’t fit into our life, we fit
into theirs. Dedicating certain times when you give
your kids 100 per cent of your attention works
for me. When I grab the kids from school, I am
theirs until dinner most days. If I have to answer
KIRSTEN WALKER
Founder of Palm Beach Collection,
mum of two
an email or take a phone call, my kids understand
now. I also think it’s important that children see their
mothers working. I’m proud of my job and it’s good
for them to know that.
The biggest change since becoming a mum has
been how I have grown as a person. Having children
has taught me so much about myself, how to be a
better person, especially how to be patient and kind.”
marty
(Marty)
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