The Hardest Job in the World

I think some of the roles I’ve had over the years have been pretty challenging. In my former life, I had to carry a lot on my shoulders: responsibility for large teams, budgets, and delivering results, sometimes with extremely ‘’demanding" clients.

And then... there’s the life of a startup founder.

Well, I can safely say that nothing prepares you for this journey. A constant rollercoaster of emotions, every day one step forward, two steps backwards, and the constant feeling that you’re failing because you're not doing enough…the list is endless.

But I’ve always believed with a passion that the hardest and most undervalued job in the world is actually being a mother, and that’s without me even being one!

And nothing reinforced and made me think about it more than looking after two children for the night. In fact, it made me realize that there are profound comparisons between the world of startup founders and the often underestimated complexities of motherhood.

But I’ve always believed with a passion that the hardest and most undervalued job in the world is actually being a mother, and that’s without me even being one!

And nothing reinforced and made me think about it more than looking after two children for the night.

It made me realize that there are profound comparisons between the world of startup founders and the often underestimated complexities of motherhood:

1. The Unpredictability Factor: Just as a startup founder faces market fluctuations, unexpected competitor moves, and the ever-evolving demands of innovation, motherhood brings its own unpredictability.

The needs, moods, and health of children can change rapidly, often without warning, as I found out last night when a cold rapidly descended onto a three-year-old! Just like monitoring a startup’s health, motherhood requires constant vigilance, but a mother's "market" never closes.

There's no stepping away or taking a breather when things get tough

2. Resource Management: Start-up founders are renowned for their skill in stretching resources, be it capital, time, or manpower, to their limits to achieve their goals. In motherhood, the management of resources takes on a different hue.

It involves not just the allocation of financial resources but the emotional and physical energy required to nurture, educate, and provide for children.

The stakes, arguably, are much higher, and the resources far more precious.

3. Emotional Rollercoaster: Any founder knows the emotional rollercoaster. But from what I can see, Motherhood is its own emotional marathon. Even as an Aunty, I know the highs of seeing a child achieve milestones or the simple joys of a child's laughter are unparalleled.

Yet, these highs are often matched with lows—worry over illnesses, the struggle of balancing discipline with love, and the constant self-doubt about whether one is doing enough or doing it right.

And while startups can pivot or even fail without lifelong consequences, the "outcomes" of motherhood are far more personal and impactful.

4. The Value of Success: For a startup founder, success can be measured in profitability, market share, and innovation. These achievements are celebrated publicly and recognized in tangible rewards.

In contrast, the "successes" of motherhood are often quieter, more profound, and sometimes, only recognized by those directly impacted by the role. Yet, the impact of raising kind, empathetic, and responsible individuals has a lasting effect on society that, for me, outweighs any corporate success.

In fact, raising these individuals leads to the success of humanity…which, when you think about it, includes corporates!

5. Investment and Return: I’m investing all my time, energy, and capital with the hope of a future return on investment. Motherhood demands an investment of the heart, soul, and the essence of one's being, with the return being the intangible joy of love, the privilege of watching a new person grow, and the hope of leaving a legacy through one's children.

While the financial return of a successful startup is quantifiable, the rewards of motherhood are priceless and eternal.

The losses I stand to face are substantial, both financially and emotionally, however, nothing in comparison to the incalculable loss to the individuals who’ve not been given the ‘benefits’ of motherhood.

6. Support Systems: While start-up founders often rely on mentors, investors, and a core team, mothers lean on family, friends, and sometimes, wider community networks.

Both roles can feel isolating, even with a support system, yet the support mothers seek is less about professional advancement and more about shared experiences, emotional sustenance, and the exchange of wisdom.

Something the soon to launch Womanship platform will be able to offer you.

As we navigate our own paths, let’s always remember the huge challenge and responsibility that motherhood embodies, a role that holds the power to shape the future in its hands. It's a journey of unmeasured energy, strength, endless love, and profound influence, deserving of our highest respect and support.

You are all essential threads in the fabric of this collective we call Womanship. Sign up on our website to join our beta test waitlist www.womanship.co

My wonderful mother who I could not imagine life without. Thank you for everything.