Forumpi Network

Do you think it's reasonable for the average woman to be able to have a successful career *and* raise a family these days? I know there are definitely women who have done that (and are doing that), but I mean more on a general basis. Is it more difficult these days to accomplish this?

I think it has gotten easier to have a family and a career. Women are masters at multitasking and keeping it all together. It is also more acceptable and expected for women to have a career and be a part of the workplace.

It depends. I mean a woman can work on developing a successful career from the ages of 22 to 32 for example, then have babies and stay at home (either working from home, or being self-employed) and after a few years hire a nanny and continue developing her career. I think as women, we should be creative and like Carolina said, be able to multitask. In the end, I think that will help us rise even higher by performing more efficiently at work.

I don't think we can "have it all". I don't think men can either. We have choose our priorities and deal with the consequence. For me, I want to stay home with kids. This means that I am more dependent on my husband for income and it's a sacrafice but it's one that I'm happy to make.

I agree with Zaynoub, women can't have it all. It's either we choose to pursue careers or stay home and be full-time moms. My mom for one chose her career over her family. She holds a very high position in the company she works for, however, she and my dad had to divorce when my siblings and I were very little because she simply was too busy to be there for us. Now, with my own family, I chose to be a full-time homemaker. Nothing could ever compensate for failure in the home.

I think much depends on the woman's partner. If both of them are out working, is he going to come home and expect his dinner on the table every night and his shirts freshly pressed for the morning? With a partner like that it would be difficult to have a successful career and raise a family.

However, if both parents are flexible with domestic duties and share the chores while, at the same time, ensuring plenty of downtime with the kids, then yes, I think it is reasonable for the average woman (is there such a thing? ;) to have a career and raise the kids.

Good point, Julie. Domestic responsibilities should be a partnership between husband and wife. But the question is: Are men in general even willing to take part in household chores and child-rearing? Some men may be more open-minded, but what if you end up with a husband who isn't? I guess, it's goodbye to your career and welcome to infinite domestic "bliss." :)