3 BENEFITS EVERY WOMAN NEEDS TO SUCCEED

Much has been written about work-life balance during these post-pandemic times and how working remotely is a major consideration for most women. In a landscape where work demands can sometimes overshadow personal well-being, it’s always been crucial to prioritize the benefits that support a balanced and fulfilling life. While a company’s work-from-home policies are for sure important considerations, I think there are other workplace benefits that should also be considered important. Three that stood out for me as I climbed the corporate ranks were health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off (YAAS! PTO!).

HEALTH COVERAGE

As a single mother raising an athletic son, health insurance was always a top priority. The demands of parenthood and a career can be overwhelming, but having the security of knowing that my family’s health needs were covered gave me invaluable peace of mind. (I'm sure many of you can relate to the relief of not having to worry about the well-being of your child and the cost of an emergency room visit after a sporting mishap!) According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70% of mothers with children under 18 participate in the labor force, with over 75% employed full-time. In a society where juggling multiple roles has become the norm for most working moms, is there any reason to question why access to comprehensive health insurance is non-negotiable? Yet many of us don't take the time to ask specific questions about health insurance during our interviews. Please make sure you understand the fine print of what is or isn't covered before you accept a role, and review your policy during the annual open enrollment period.

I’ve NEVAH been one to feel guilty about using my paid time off! Vacations matter.

PAID TIME OFF (PTO)

Similarly, paid time off has always held immense significance in my life. I’ve NEVAH been one to feel guilty about using my paid time off! Vacations matter. They provide an opportunity to recharge, reconnect with loved ones, and explore new experiences. When you’re a working mom, it means you may have to make choices about which extracurricular activities you can or can’t attend, which makes taking time off to create lasting memories with the family even more invaluable. And because, as women of color, we’re often responsible for other family members as well, the PTO offers a respite and a buffer from the steel jungle to remind us that life is not just about work but about cherishing moments with those we hold dear.

PTO isn't just about vacation days. It's those sick days as well. When you are sick - stay home! Gone are the days when an employer made you feel guilty about calling in sick. If your employer is still playing that, "but we really need you here" song," please be your own advocate, and stand up for yourself when you need to take time off. And yes, mental health days count!

RETIREMENT PLANNING

When you’re a single mother in your thirties faced with “staring me in my face, right now, day-to-day realities,” retirement plans may not always be at the forefront of your mind. At least they weren’t with me. So, long-term financial planning often took a backseat to more immediate concerns. And while it may seem daunting to think about retirement when it feels like an eternity away, the reality is that time flies, and the decisions we make today profoundly impact our future.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that mothers are the primary or sole earners for 40% of households with children under 18 today, compared with 11% in 1960. This statistic highlights the importance of securing our financial futures.

While I did ok for myself, I can’t help but wonder how much “Mo’ Better” things might have been had I focused on them sooner rather than later while compound interest was on my side! That’s why I share these thoughts with those of you now, while you still have time to course correct.

Health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off aren't just benefits—they are essential pillars of support that enable us to thrive successfully in our personal and professional lives. As women of color navigating the complexities of corporate America, it’s important to advocate for ourselves and prioritize the benefits that matter most to us. Don't be afraid to speak up and invest in your own well-being!

Level Up With Grace is an award-winning newsletter created for African-American women in corporate America. Designed to equip Black women (and others) who want to unapologetically create a stellar career with the strategies, insights, and techniques needed to excel in corporate America. Executive coach Cheryl Grace shares a curation of thoughts, articles, profiles, trends, and tactics that can help women advance to their next professional level, wherever they are on their career journey. Weekly emphasis on Confidence, Curiosity, Case Studies (Personal Profiles), Connection (Networking), or Course of Action (What to DO). Please subscribe and/or share!

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Powerful Penny LLC is an executive coaching, consulting, and lifestyle firm founded by veteran corporate executive Cheryl Grace. We work with corporations seeking to promote, retain, and support diverse talent, as well as diverse professionals seeking to advance to their next level of career success. Our professional development services, coaching programs, and speaking/workshop series are fully customizable. Discover how we can help you achieve your desired long-term results!