I felt it was much easier for me than for my friend because I didn’t actually have to leave home. I worked flexibly from home, so my daughter didn’t have to go to daycare. (By flexible, I mean I was the flexible one: as soon as she fell asleep, I was already at my computer.)
I still remember my accountant’s gloomy warning: “You’ll regret going back to work; everyone I know who did has.” She couldn’t have been more wrong! I was motivated—not just because we needed the money, with the house renovation in full swing—but because I was searching for something more. Something to reconnect me with the part of myself that’s not just a mom, but also a woman, a professional, and an active member of society, even if a bit isolated for now. And you know what? Looking back, one of my best decisions was ignoring my accountant and eventually replacing her. I now realize I did a favor not only for myself but also for my family and my daughter.
What Does Science Say?
A study from Harvard Business School confirms this. Kids raised by working moms tend to be more successful adults—not just in their careers. The research shows daughters of women who worked at least some during their child-rearing years are 4.5% more likely to work as adults themselves. They’re also more likely to hold leadership roles and earn more than those raised by stay-at-home moms.
What about boys? The study finds they benefit too: they’re more likely to do housework and spend quality time with family—growing into more sensitive, equal partners as adults.
Kathleen McGinn, the lead researcher, says, “Working moms create an environment that redefines what kids think of as feminine or masculine.” Girls see it’s possible to be both caring and driven, while boys learn that being present at home isn’t just ‘helping out’—it’s a natural part of partnership.
It’s About More Than Paychecks or Relationships
The study found that in the U.S., daughters of working moms earn on average $5,200 more per year. But even more importantly, these kids witness what it looks like when a woman pursues her goals while staying a loving parent.
Addie Gundry, co-founder of Pluie, puts it like this: “I don’t just financially support my family—I show my daughter what it means to live with passion and commitment. My career isn’t separate from motherhood; it’s part of who I am.”
I felt exactly the same. At the time, I was also working for a mom-and-baby magazine, and it was almost therapeutic to write for other moms about what I was living through. I knew I was earning money in a way that helped both myself and women who truly understand the physical and emotional challenges of this time.
What About the Guilt of Working?
Yes, that’s part of the package too. Working moms often feel they’re not giving enough—neither to their kids nor their jobs. But research shows that by working, you’re not only supporting your family financially but enriching your children’s lives in the long run. Many parents struggle with guilt because of outside pressure—as if they have to choose: either be a mom or a self-fulfilled woman. But it turns out the most valuable example for our kids is seeing that it’s possible to thrive in multiple roles at once.
This doesn’t mean every mom has to work! There’s no one right path. But if you do work—whether out of necessity, passion, or self-realization—know that what you’re doing truly matters and can be an amazing example for your children. The most successful kids are raised by moms who are authentic. Moms who dare to lead by example—not just with words, but with actions. Whether you’re building a career, starting a business, learning a new skill, or simply bringing home a boost of confidence—your child is watching. And what they see shapes who they become!
