It's working for Manon D
New York, New York
3 children
"You have to live your own life – your kids are along for the ride. Having your children watch you go after what you want and work hard to achieve it is a strong lesson for them. "
That I should continue to view life as a big picture and not get caught up in the weeds.
I was given a job offer and delayed that offer for 6 months so I could have and raise my newborn child. The woman who gave me that flexibility with a new baby laid the groundwork for the rest of my career.
With my first child I did pump and was able to breastfeed for an entire year as a result. I wanted to breastfeed as long as possible.
I was pregnant while interviewing for jobs and had to ask for a 6-month deferment before taking an employment opportunity. I was fortunate to be granted that time to raise my child outside the usual 6–8 weeks of paid leave.
I was given a job offer and delayed that offer for 6 months so I could have and raise my newborn child. The woman who gave me that flexibility with a new baby laid the groundwork for the rest of my career.
Later, when I was leading a foundation as Executive Director, I took no time off because the organization was small and there was no capability if I left for a maternity leave. Also, finding affordable, quality childcare was a major stress factor when balancing work and my growing family.