As I sit down to write this article, I can't help but smile at the chaos that often defines my life. With a teenage boy who thinks he knows everything and a preschooler who is a walking tornado, being a wife and mother is a rollercoaster ride of challenges and triumphs. Add in my roles as a project manager, entrepreneur, and community volunteer, and you've got a recipe for scenario worthy of a sitcom. But amidst the chaos, there's also an abundance of joy, laughter, and opportunities for growth.

"Sometimes, it feels like I'm walking a tightrope while juggling flaming torches."

Let's start with the challenges, shall we? Picture this: it's Wednesday morning, and I've got a preschooler trying to have every conversation possible while I try to lead a virtual meeting with a team of professionals. Cue the inevitable interruptions - "Mommy, do you know how to spell my name?" or "Mommy, can I get a popsicle?" It's enough to make even the most seasoned project manager want to throw in the towel. And don't even get me started on the joys of trying to balance work deadlines with soccer practice, swimming lessons, and the myriad of child related appointments. Sometimes, it feels like I'm walking a tightrope while juggling flaming torches.

Challenges are an inevitable part of life, and in each area of my life, I have faced moments where I felt like giving up. As a mother, balancing the needs of a teenage boy and a preschooler can be overwhelming, with constant demands for attention, guidance, and support. As a project manager, navigating tight deadlines, shifting priorities, and team dynamics can sometimes feel like an uphill battle.

"The ability to prioritize tasks, delegate responsibilities, and adapt to changing circumstances has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of motherhood, work, and life."

But amidst the chaos, there are also moments of sheer joy and fulfillment that make it all worthwhile. Like the look of pride on my teenage son's face when he shares the most recent happenings in his life or the sound of my preschooler's infectious laughter as he explores the world with boundless curiosity. Witnessing the growth, laughter, and love shared between my children fills my heart with an indescribable sense of gratitude and purpose. As a project manager, I've learned to apply my skills in organization, problem-solving, and communication to navigate the ups and downs of motherhood. Who knew that creating a project plan for a corporate initiative would be excellent training for managing a household?

What I've come to realize is that many of the skills I often take for granted as a project manager – strategic planning, problem-solving, communication, and leadership – have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. It wasn't until I was introduced to formal project management in 2015 that I fully recognized the invaluable toolkit I had been honing for years. The ability to prioritize tasks, delegate responsibilities, and adapt to changing circumstances has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of motherhood, work, and life.

 So, to my fellow moms who may be feeling overwhelmed or doubting their abilities, I want to   share five tips to encourage, motivate, 

 and change the narrative:

 Embrace Imperfection: None of us have it all figured out, and that's okay. Embrace the chaos,   laugh at the messes, and give yourself grace on the journey.

 Lean on Your Support Network: Whether it's your partner, friends, family, or fellow moms,   don't  be afraid to ask for help when you need it. We're all in this together.

 Prioritize Self-Care: It's easy to put everyone else's needs ahead of your own but remember   that you can't pour from an empty cup. Take time for yourself, whether it's a bubble bath, a walk in   nature, or simply a few moments of quiet reflection.

 Celebrate the Small Wins: Parenthood is full of tiny victories that deserve to be celebrated.   Whether it's a successful clean-up after yourself session, completing a project or simply a   productive day at work, take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter   how small.

 Own Your Strengths: As women, we often downplay our abilities and underestimate our worth.   But the truth is, we are capable of extraordinary things. Own your strengths, embrace your   uniqueness, and never apologize for being unapologetically authentic.

 So, here's to all the moms out there who are juggling a million things and doing it with grace,   humor, and love. Let's take a moment to stop, reflect, and honor the incredible strength,   resilience, and grace of women everywhere. You are incredible, you are capable, and you belong   in every room, every position, and every role you choose to pursue. Together, let’s rewrite the   narrative and empower each other to embrace our full potential!

 

Happy Mother's Day!

 

Natalya Petrekin. BSC. PMP, ITIL, IT Service Ops

Image Consultant

Project Manager WBM Technologies

Director of Marketing, PMI Manitoba Chapter

Board Member, PMI Manitoba Chapter