Why Some Awesome Mothers Give up Jobs After Having First Baby?

Introduction:

Hey, wonderful readers! Today, let's chat about the adventure of being a mom and having a job in India. It's like putting together a big puzzle, and we're here to uncover why many amazing women decide to press pause on work after becoming moms. So, grab your favorite snack, and let's explore this journey together!

Motherhood and Career 

Understanding Maternity Leave Policies:

Alright, let's talk about maternity leave. It's like a special pass for new moms, right? But here's the thing - not everyone gets to use the full pass. Imagine having 26 weeks to spend with your little one, but about 42% of women in India don't take all of it because they worry about losing their jobs. That's a real concern, and it affects the decisions moms make about when to return to work.

Cultural Expectations and Family Priorities:

Now, picture a world where family is everything. It's pretty awesome, isn't it? But sometimes, this world comes with a challenge. A study tells us that strong cultural values sometimes make women feel like they should put their family first. It's like being a superhero both at work and at home, trying to find that perfect balance.

Lack of Flexible Work Arrangements:

Being flexible at work is like having a magical wand. Sadly, not all workplaces have that magic. A study found that only about 30% of companies in India offer flexible work options. So, it's like wanting a sprinkle of magic, but not everyone gets it, making it harder for moms to manage work and family.

Childcare Challenges:

Let's talk about the superhero struggle of finding good childcare. It's a bit like searching for a unicorn - rare and magical. A secret report tells us that only about 10% of little ones in India have access to proper childcare. So, many moms become full-time superheroes at home to make sure their little ones are safe and sound.

Biological Changes and Energy Levels:

Now, think about the amazing changes happening inside a mom's body. After having a baby, it's like running a marathon every day! Studies show that these changes can affect energy levels, making it challenging for some moms to handle both work and baby duties. It's like trying to power up with a low battery.

Impact on Partners and Family:

Here's where it gets interesting. Having support from partners and family is a big deal. Sometimes, partners might not fully understand how challenging it is for moms. A little understanding and teamwork can make a huge difference. But, in some cases, family members want women to play an equal role in both places - taking care of the baby and managing family responsibilities. Finding this balance can be like walking on a tightrope.

Differences Between Today's Moms and Our Moms:

Now, let's look back and think about our moms, the real superheroes of their time. They handled bigger families, like 3 to 5 kids, and made it look easy. So, why does it seem harder for today's awesome women with 1 or 2 kids? The answer lies in the changes in our world.

Back then, our moms had a strong community to support them. The neighbor was like a second mom, and grandma was the wise guide. Today, our lives are faster, and the close-knit neighborhoods are a bit rare. So, handling kids on your own, without that village, can feel like climbing a mountain.

Also, the way we work has changed. Our moms often had jobs closer to home, giving them more time for the family. Today, with long commutes and demanding jobs, finding that work-life balance feels like solving a Rubik's Cube.

Conclusion:

"Why do numerous amazing mothers choose to leave their work journey after welcoming a new baby? It's not just a personal decision; it's a mix of various factors in life's rich tapestry. The exciting part? We have the power to make positive changes! Let's advocate for supportive policies, celebrate workplaces where everyone feels like a superhero, and imagine a future where childcare is as accessible as our favorite treats. Every mom deserves the opportunity to shine both at home with her superhero cape and in her career with her professional hat! 🚀🌈"