In a candid exploration of the challenges faced by working mothers, actress and producer Emily Collins shares her relatable insights on the pervasive issue of mom guilt. The societal expectation that mothers must be constantly engaged in their children’s lives can often feel overwhelming. However, Collins advocates for the notion that having passions and careers outside of parenting is not only acceptable but can also have positive implications for children.
A Balancing Act
As a dedicated mother to two daughters, Mia, aged five, and Sophie, aged three, whom she co-parents with her former partner, Collins balances her professional commitments with her family life. Frequent travel for work is a reality she navigates, and to help her daughters cope with her absences, she developed a strategy centered around a “Family Calendar.”
“I use a bright marker to highlight the days I’ll be away, and I encourage Mia to cross off those days once they’re done. This helps her visualize my absence and reassures her that I will return,” Collins shared on her social media account.
Transforming the Narrative
Additionally, Collins has transformed the narrative she shares with her children regarding her work. She emphasizes the joy and fulfillment she derives from her career, aiming to instill a sense of positivity about work in her daughters. “I’ve stopped saying ‘I have to go to work’ with a frown, as I realized it might lead them to view work negatively—a necessary evil,” she explained. A friend inspired this shift in perspective, reminding her that many mothers face the same struggle to convey that work can be an enriching experience.
Empowering Connections
Collins acknowledges the guilt that often accompanies her absences but is committed to empowering her children to view her career as a positive aspect of their lives. “I take ownership of my responsibilities rather than blaming my job for being away,” she noted.
To maintain meaningful connections with her daughters while away, she engages in small gestures, such as sending postcards to Mia during summer camp, ensuring that her daughters receive tangible reminders of her love. “We must discover authentic ways to connect, true to who we are as individuals,” she advised. As a humorous aside, she recounted a lesson learned the hard way: “If you want to chat with Mia, avoid FaceTiming—trust me on this one.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Emily Collins exemplifies how working mothers can navigate the intricate balance between professional commitments and parenting, transforming guilt into a tool for fostering resilience and positivity in their children. Her story serves as a reminder that while the journey of motherhood may be fraught with challenges, there are ways to maintain connections and celebrate the joys of both work and family life.
For those seeking further information on reproductive health and parenting, resources are available through Medical News Today and for insights into home insemination, check out Make a Mom.
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