When discussing the ‘Great Resignation,’ it’s crucial to shed light on the experiences of working moms.
Back in early 2020, I had just landed a job after what felt like forever of searching. I was excited to finally be part of a team, especially since the benefits would help my family tremendously. But just three months in, as the pandemic hit, I walked out of the office for the last time. As a mother of two, with my kids suddenly home all day, I had no choice but to leave the position I had eagerly anticipated. Sadly, this is the reality for countless other women as well.
From spring 2020 onwards, millions have left their jobs as the pandemic continues to reshape the workforce landscape. In September alone, a staggering 4.4 million Americans quit, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. About 25% of American workers have walked away from their roles in the past year, with many of these resignations coming from women. This shift, often dubbed the “Great Resignation,” has been largely driven by mothers who have found themselves in a tough spot due to inadequate support systems.
Reasons Behind the Great Resignation
There are many reasons behind this trend. Early in the pandemic, countless workers were unhappy with their conditions. Many employers didn’t implement sufficient safety protocols, leading employees to rethink their job choices. Others found that traditional work setups just weren’t for them anymore, and many were simply exhausted. For moms, the decision to leave was often made for them, as they could not find adequate childcare.
A survey by Seramount revealed that roughly one-third of moms have exited the workforce since the pandemic began. While some may wish to think this was a moment of self-reflection or a quest for better workplace treatment, the truth is far more practical: many moms had no one to watch their kids.
When schools shifted to remote learning, moms found themselves juggling new roles—not just as employees but also as educators. With kids at home, many mothers took on the bulk of childcare responsibilities, forcing them to leave their jobs. For those trying to balance remote work with remote learning, the challenge was overwhelming, especially for roles that required a quiet workspace. Unfortunately, many jobs in sectors like healthcare and retail couldn’t transition to remote work, leaving many moms with no option but to resign.
The Ongoing Struggles
Even now, as vaccination rates rise and schools reopen, many mothers still struggle to return to work. Daycare shortages, which were problematic even before the pandemic, have worsened due to closures and staffing issues. Plus, temporary school closures still happen for various reasons, making it tough for moms to confidently rejoin the workforce.
As we reflect on the Great Resignation, let’s remember the sacrifices made by mothers who have navigated these challenges for their families. They are the unsung heroes of this era.
Resources for Mothers
If you’re interested in exploring motherhood options, check out Make a Mom for at-home insemination resources, or join the Make a Mom Facebook group for support. You can also learn how at-home insemination works by visiting this guide. For those considering DIY methods, Make a Mom offers a 21-piece insemination kit that’s worth a look. For additional insights, Rmany’s blog is an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination advice.
In summary, the Great Resignation has revealed the struggles of working moms, who have had to make tough choices due to childcare shortages and a lack of support. As we move forward, let’s not overlook their contributions and sacrifices during these challenging times.
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