From Stuck to Unstoppable: Navigating Career Disruption as a Professional Mom

From Stuck to Unstoppable: Navigating Career Disruption as a Professional Mom

"I don't know my kids anymore." These were the haunting words that echoed in my mind as I volunteered at the distress line, listening to distressed parents pour their hearts out. This stark realization pushed me to rethink my priorities. As a physician from the Philippines who transitioned to life in Canada in 2014, my career journey has been anything but conventional.

A Little Bit of My Story

After moving to Canada, I diligently prepared by completing multiple exams and gaining Canadian experience, thinking I was ready to practice. When I finally felt prepared, I applied and received interviews from prestigious universities. However, this process was far from easy. I had to relearn how to write and read academic English effectively, which was a significant challenge in itself. Despite these efforts, I realized I needed to do even more to integrate into the medical community here fully.

Balancing this demanding process with my family responsibilities became incredibly tough. I found myself feeling stuck, lonely, and insecure, especially when I saw my classmates from medical school already practicing. It was a sad and insecure place, forcing me to choose between my career and my family.

The turning point came while volunteering at my local distress line. Parents shared their fears about losing their children and spoke about the challenges of spending enough time with kids who were also in crisis. I realized the same could happen to me. I didn't want to wake up one day and not know my kids anymore. I believe in prevention rather than trying to pick up the pieces afterwards.

However, this did not mean giving up my passion for helping people. Today, I work part-time in addiction and mental health for the government, continuing to serve in ways that align with my current life. Here are three key strategies that helped me move from feeling stuck to becoming unstoppable:

1. Evaluate Your Mindset and Non-Negotiables

Navigating career disruption began with evaluating my non-negotiables. What are my priorities at this moment? I made a conscious decision to focus on my mindset. A positive mindset became my anchor, reminding me that prioritizing my children didn’t mean the end of my professional aspirations. Know your non-negotiables and stand firm by them. They will guide you through difficult decisions.

2. Let Go of What No Longer Serves You

Letting go was critical. This doesn't mean I gave up my passion for medicine. Instead, I found new ways to serve and contribute to transformation and healing in people's lives. It's okay to let go of roles, tasks, or expectations that no longer align with your priorities. This act of release creates room for new opportunities that better fit your current life situation.

3. Find Joy in the Present

Lastly, I learned to find joy in what I have now. It's easy to get bogged down by the opinions of others, especially as a recovering people-pleaser. I often worried about what people would think of me giving up my medical career for my children. However, I realized that their opinions don't define my worth. What matters is that I am doing my best for my family. Embrace the present and find joy in your current role, knowing that you are taking the best possible steps for your loved ones and yourself.

In conclusion, experiencing career disruption as a professional mom is a challenging but surmountable journey. By prioritizing your mindset, letting go of what no longer serves you, and finding joy in your current circumstances, you can transform from feeling stuck to becoming unstoppable. Remember, you are not alone, and every step you take is a testament to your strength and resilience.

Let's continue to support each other, share our stories, and inspire one another on this remarkable journey of motherhood and professional growth.