"Finding a job I love and my love for my family gives me the energy to keep going!"
Mother's Day serves as an annual reminder to reflect on the remarkable impact mothers have on individuals and society. It offers a dedicated moment to express gratitude for the everyday acts of love, care, and sacrifice that often go unrecognized.
To mark its significance, Silicon Box asked three of our working mothers – Katy, May and Jick, who have been with Silicon Box since its early days – how they have navigated the complexities of balancing their professional aspirations with the joys and challenges of motherhood.
Personal & Professional Journey
What inspired you to pursue your current career path, and how has motherhood influenced that journey?
Katy: I am a technical trainer in the learning and development field, so continuous learning has always been a vital part of my life. After becoming a mother, I learned to be more patient and view things from different perspectives. Previously, I focused solely on adult learning theory. However, during my pregnancy, I was eager to be a good mom, so I read The Psychology Book (DK) and attended several psychological courses from SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) to understand how to better interact with my child. Interestingly, the new psychological theories I learned for my daughter improved my communication and performance with my team, because I could break down complex technical concepts into easier, more memorable content.
May: I have always been passionate about problem resolution as an engineer. Motherhood has given me a new sense of purpose and drive that further fuels this passion. My role also requires me to work shifts. Since becoming a mother, I've learned to be more efficient and focused on every aspect of my work. I now prioritize my time better, allowing me to fully commit to my child at home while meeting work expectations.
Jick: I was fortunate to dedicate most of my time to my kids for the first seven years of motherhood. It was only after I transitioned into the semiconductor industry that my career began to evolve. Now that my children are older, I have more time to focus on my work and build my professional path while still being present for them.
Work-Life Balance and Company Culture
How do you balance your responsibilities at work with your role as a mother? What strategies or routines help you manage your time and energy between work and family?
Katy: I am still figuring out how to balance work and family. At this stage of motherhood, I need to pay more attention to my family since my daughter is still young. Although my parents help, she still prefers to be with me, especially when she is unwell. What has worked so far is compartmentalizing my focus: at work, I concentrate on work, and at home, I focus on my daughter.
May: I try to plan ahead as much as possible. If I know I must work overtime that day, I make alternative childcare arrangements around pickup times. I identify "time-wasting" activities, like mindless social media scrolling, and use that time to rest and relax instead. I prioritize getting enough sleep each night to ensure I'm well-rested and ready for the challenges ahead.
Jick: I am incredibly grateful to my husband, who helps with most of the kids' homework. Finding a job I love and my love for my family gives me the energy to keep going!
Can you share a challenge you've faced balancing work and motherhood and how you overcame it?
Katy: Last December, my daughter and husband both came down with hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). I had to shuttle between three locations: one at home and another at the hospital. Thankfully, I have supportive colleagues who helped me reorganize deadlines and a kind boss who offered to cover for me. My parents were also able to help care for my daughter at home.
May: My child recently had a high fever and needed to be hospitalized because it took a while to subside. Due to the nature of my job, which requires me to work shifts, my manager and I had to rework operational scheduling with the rest of my team. It was difficult, but thankfully, Silicon Box's supportive culture regarding family commitments allowed me to navigate this period without major issues.
Jick: I believe I balance both aspects well, thanks to the incredible support from my husband and not to forget my boss who always allows me to take urgent leave when needed to attend to my kids.
"One significant lesson I've learned from motherhood that I apply to my work life is the importance of patience and truly listening to others."
Personal Insights & Advice
What is one lesson you've learned from motherhood that you apply to your work life?
Katy: One significant lesson I've learned from motherhood that I apply to my work life is the importance of patience and truly listening to others.
May: Time management. Only after becoming a mother did, I realize how much time I have each day and how effective time management can benefit both my work and home life.
Jick: Being patient.
What advice would you offer to other mothers who are navigating their careers?
Katy: Remember that we are all different and face unique situations, so don't feel pressured if the advice doesn't resonate with you.
May: Take things slowly. No one is a perfect mother from day one, so don't be too hard on yourself when you make mistakes.
Are you especially proud of a particular moment as a working mother?
Katy: Always proud of myself because I was brave enough to choose to be a mother… 😂
May: While I don't have a specific moment, I often reflect on and feel proud that I am fully committed to supporting my child's development.
Jick: Working mothers essentially juggle two major jobs, and you can never quit being a mother!
Looking Forward
How do you hope to inspire your children through your work and career?
Katy: I want to teach them to never stop learning. Grades aren't what matters; the ability to learn is what truly counts. Never think you know everything.
May: I hope to show them that with hard work and dedication; anyone can achieve their goals.
Jick: I once told my kids that regardless of their future aspirations, the most important principle is to "Deliver what you have committed." Since the beginning of my career, I have dreamt of leading my own team and sharing my knowledge with the younger generation so they can eventually take over. Much like raising my children, I aim to nurture them to become independent and trustworthy individuals.
While Katy, May and Jick’s paths to motherhood differ, we find a common thread of resilience, adaptability, and support when they share their challenges, hopes, and pride in growing personally and professionally. Their insights serve as a reminder that challenges can lead to growth, and with determination and the proper support, it is possible to thrive in both roles.
This Mother's Day, we celebrate not just the sacrifices made by mothers, but also their unwavering strength and profound influence they have on their families and workplaces alike. We hope their experiences inspire others to pursue their passions while embracing the beautiful journey of motherhood.
#FunFact
36% of our female employees are parents and 43% of Silicon Box employees are women!
Are you looking to work with colleagues who are passionate and motivated like Katy, May and Jick?
Reach out to us for career opportunities at hr@silicon-box.com or explore our Job Portal.
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