Hi Hannah, tell us a bit about yourself. What do you do, how old are your children and what happens with your kids when you are at work?
I am the founder of a boutique growth consulting firm that specialises in helping early stage startups develop sustainable strategies that drive consistent growth. Before everything, I am a mother to my son Gabriel who is a witty, joyful and beautiful little man. He could be a child comedian, he’s so funny.
Prior to the global pandemic, I’d be up at 6:30 to get to the gym before the day kicks into action. My boy would attend nursery full time and that would give me peace of mind that he was safe, occupied and entertained. Now, I have my son hanging from my neck as I type and he keeps pressing the keyboard and believes that he doesn't need to sleep - ever.
1. One word to describe how being a WoMo makes you feel?
Invigorated.
2. What’s the funniest experience you have had juggling kids and work?
My son walked in on a conference call to invite everyone over to our house. He also asked me if I’d brushed my teeth properly today.
3. What is the one piece of advice you could offer another WoMo?
You have to really make every single day count when you are away from your little ones. That means working hard and smart to justify being away from them. I know it’s normal and just part of life but, it's hard. Knowing that I am working hard now to give myself and my son better choices and opportunity in the future, gives me comfort each time I have to be away from him.
4. What’s the least amount of sleep you’ve gone to work on and how did you cope?
2 hours. The nights when my little fella isn’t 100% or he’s not settled and I’ve had to get work done into the early hours.
5. What have you learned about yourself as a WoMo?
I am so much more capable than I ever thought I was. For 2 years I woke up at 5am, prepared my son’s breakfast, lunch and nursery bag, headed to the gym, commuted 2 hours to work, 2 hours back, then did bath time and bed and I look back and have no idea how I survived. As a WOMO, you dig deeper than you ever have before and you simply get things done. There’s no ifs or buts it just is.
6. If you had a working mother’s anthem or mantra, what would it be?
Everything you do today will pay off tomorrow. I promise.
7. What is your guilty pleasure to combat WoMo guilt the best?
Oh it has to be heading to the seaside with my little boy, and acting like a big kid whilst he bosses me around!
8. Would you rather be dealing with a tantrum or presenting in a board meeting?
Board meeting x 10 haha.
9. If you asked your child what your job is, what would they say?
“Work, Work, WORKKKK” is what my son said. haha
10. What’s the one thing you wish you’d known before you became a WoMo?
That there is really only 24 hours in a day. I was under the impression the days were much longer.
11. To date, what has been your best WoMo achievement?
Kick starting my own business with no certainties whatsoever and still being able to provide for my family
12. What do you want to teach your kids about working mothers?
I really want my son to understand that going to work is normal. It’s important for him to not just feel abandoned and for me to set an example that you have to work for the things you want in life. He now encourages me to get on with my work whilst he does his “work”