Courage.
Compassion.
Change.
Keynotes| Coach | Working Mom Wellbeing Expert
For women who want to win in life in both family & career.
Empowering working mothers goes beyond mere support; it's about valuing their extraordinary strengths and fostering environments where they can excel. My mission is to redefine the narrative of work-life balance, transforming it into a reality where mothers can thrive in both their professional and personal lives.
-Danielle A. Melton
Here’s the thing…
Working Mothers are a forgotten species in today’s society
At Home:
The Invisible Load of Working Mothers
While we've made strides towards gender equality, working mothers continue to carry a heavier burden of domestic responsibilities. The United Nations reports that women perform almost triple the amount of unpaid domestic and care work compared to men. This imbalance remains, irrespective of a mother's employment status, leading to stress, limited time, and potential burnout. Juggling work and home responsibilities, working mothers undertake the daunting tasks of managing household duties, caregiving, and their careers, often at the expense of their own well-being.
At Work:
The Overlooked Ambitions of Working Mothers
In their professional lives, working mothers face obstacles that hinder their progress and well-being. The National Women's Law Center reveals that mothers earn merely 71 cents for every dollar fathers make, indicating a significant "motherhood penalty." Moreover, 41% of working mothers experience workplace discrimination, often overlooked for promotions or important tasks due to their maternal status, according to a Pew Research Center survey. This highlights the urgent need for more inclusive workplace policies that cater to the specific needs of working mothers.
In Society:
The Misunderstood Roles of Working Mothers
The societal expectations placed on working mothers are contradictory and unrealistic. They are expected to dedicate themselves fully to their families while also achieving career success without letting family responsibilities interfere. This paradox results in unrealistic standards, leading to judgment and stigma. The American Psychological Association points out that these societal pressures significantly impact the mental health of working mothers, contributing to anxiety and depression.
Personal Expectations:
The Inner Conflict of Working Mothers
Working mothers often deal with self-imposed high standards in both their professional and personal lives. The challenge to be an exemplary parent while advancing in their careers is overwhelming. Research in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior shows that 78% of working mothers feel guilty for not being fully present in either role, creating a constant feeling of inadequacy and increased stress.
A Call for Change
These unrealistic expectations on working mothers must be addressed, and significant change is imperative. Moving forward requires more than awareness; it demands action, empathy, and strategic solutions to confront these challenges directly.
This is where Danielle A. Melton Comes in!
Hi, I’m Danielle A. Melton
Navigating executive leadership while being a mom pushed me to the edge. Striving for balance in a high-pressure career and motherhood, I faced burnout so intense it sent me to urgent care. This moment was a wake-up call, showing me the unsustainable reality many working moms endure. The quest for balance had become a crisis, signaling a deep need for change.
This personal low ignited a shift in me. I realized my struggle was shared by countless mothers juggling career ambitions with family life. It became clear: we need more than resilience; we need workplaces that genuinely support working mothers.
Driven to make a difference, I set out to champion change.
My aim? To foster work environments that understand and support the unique needs of working moms. I'm dedicated to creating spaces where mothers don't have to choose between career and family, their dual roles are recognized, and…
burnout isn't the price of ambition.
My path from burnout to advocacy highlights the critical need for workplace evolution. It's about ensuring working moms are supported to succeed in every aspect of their lives, marking a step towards more inclusive and empathetic workplaces.
Make a Difference Today
-
Donate to MOTHERboard Foundation
Support our ongoing initiatives and programs dedicated to the welfare of working mothers. Your donation can make a significant impact on the lives of countless families, helping to provide the resources and support needed to thrive.
-
Level Up Your Workplace
Transform your organization into a beacon of support for working mothers. Discover how MOTHERboard can help create a more inclusive, flexible, and supportive work environment that benefits everyone.
-
Be Inspired By Danielle
Bring Danielle A. Melton’s expertise to your next event or meeting. Her insights on balancing professional success with personal well-being are invaluable for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the lives of working mothers.