Should Mothers Have a Purpose Outside the Nurture of Her Family?
This is a loaded topic. The opinions are vast and equally passionate, making it a complex issue to tackle.
Traditionally, social norms around motherhood placed women in the home, nurturing children while men went out to work. However, modern times have shifted this dynamic, encouraging women to become not only accomplished mothers but also career women, contributors to the workforce, or individuals with passions outside of motherhood. This change, while empowering, has introduced a real juggling act for many women who feel torn between fulfilling family responsibilities and pursuing their dreams.
Can You Do It All?
Yes, you can. But the question isn’t whether you can do it all – it’s about redefining what "all" means. It’s healthy for mothers to have goals and ambitions beyond the home, and it’s crucial to recognize that a woman’s purpose as a mother is intertwined with her identity as an individual. These roles are not mutually exclusive; they can coexist harmoniously, providing multiple expressions of a woman’s life purpose.
It’s possible to be both an involved, nurturing mother and an accomplished, fulfilled individual. The key lies in finding the right balance and understanding that it's okay to have desires and goals that extend beyond motherhood.
Autonomy Is Important
Here's why it’s essential for women to maintain some level of autonomy, even while embracing motherhood.
Women in their 50s and 60s often express a sense of loss when their children grow up and move out. Many of them realize that they’ve spent so many years dedicated solely to their children’s upbringing that they’ve forgotten about their own dreams and aspirations. Once their children are independent, they feel lost, not knowing how to spend their time or what direction to take.
This sense of loss often stems from the fact that they’ve spent years focusing on just one aspect of their identity – being a mother. While it’s a noble role, it’s not the only role they’re capable of playing. Women should be encouraged to pursue goals outside of motherhood, ensuring that they retain a sense of self throughout the different stages of life.
Hot Tips: How to Maintain Purpose Beyond Motherhood
Living through the seasons of motherhood without losing yourself is possible, and here’s how:
Don’t let go of your dreams. While motherhood might demand the shelving of some dreams, don’t let them fade away completely. Keep them alive, even in the smallest ways possible.
Explore your purpose beyond motherhood. Allow yourself to reflect on who you are and how motherhood connects to your life’s purpose. Trust me, there’s more to your story than just being a mom.
Include your children in your pursuits. As your kids grow older, involve them in the things you’re passionate about. This not only helps them understand you better but also teaches them the value of pursuing one’s goals.
Challenge "mum guilt." Whenever those nagging thoughts about being purposeful outside of motherhood creep in, remind yourself that being fulfilled makes you a better mother and a happier individual.
Let’s Normalize Women Having Purpose in Every Area of Their Lives
In a world that often tries to confine women to one role, it’s time we celebrate and normalise women having purpose in every area of their lives. It’s not about choosing one path over another – it’s about embracing the diverse journey that motherhood and individuality can offer together.
Kara Walsh
Founder - The Purpose Co.