Epi 32: Being a “Good Enough” Mother - Taking Command of Work/Life Balance with Dr. Susan Landers
Life is best lived when in balance, but for most women, achieving balance is the equivalent of walking a tightrope without a safety net underneath— it’s tricky at best and, for many, a definite struggle. This is especially true for working mothers.
In this week’s episode, we take on our relationship with work and family while trying to achieve and be quote “good enough mothers” with retired neonatologist Dr. Susan Landers. She walks us through the lessons she learned about work/life balance as a high-achieving physician. Those lessons have now been parlayed into a mission to educate women to show up as their best selves, be present, and own their accomplishments as wives, mothers, and career-driven women.
Dr. Landers takes us on a journey to nourish our souls through family and work.
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction
01:15 Dr. Landers reflects on her career, her passion for serving working mothers, and how mother’s strikeout
03:54 Understanding of kids needs at different stages
06:04 Being a “good enough mother”: what that means and how we have to allow ourselves grace
08:40 Choosing yourself is highly important—the fullness and pleasure of our work
09:44 What women can do to hold their identity as wife, mother, and employee
09:57 Understanding your needs and the importance of grounded self-care
12:05 Learning how to work on your marriage while in the throes of juggling family and work
14:24 Find your boundaries, learn to say “no,” and engage with a mentor
16:26 Communication is vital in all things—especially marriage and work
18:08 Find your key group—great girlfriends add to your happiness
19:57 Balance is found within: what balance is and where to find it
22:50 Admitting what we need
24:42 The power of guilt and how to find meaning in letting go
28:20 “Good enough” is about self-care
31:48 The energy struggle
34:03 Find your nurture points
37:45 Support other working moms
47:43 Get to know yourself and what you need
49:48 The importance of Dr. Landers work
51:47 Dr. Landers’ 3 things
A reminder of Dr. Landers’ most brilliant takeaways: Do what you can because that is always enough. Be present in each task you are taking on, whether in the office or the home. Remember to review your accomplishments as you are in them, not just at the end. Balance comes from self-care, nurturing yourself, and then your relationships. Use your resources and connections to your benefit. And finally, be curious and continue to learn as this keeps you focused on your passion. Brilliant advice.
If you would like to know more about balancing career and motherhood, follow dr. Landers @susanlandersmd and visit susanlandersmd.com for more information about her book So Many Babies.
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Still, looking for more? Visit: www.getyourlifetogethergirl.com, where you will find the Get Your Life Together, Girl blog. Until next time…be kind to yourself and others.