Updated: Dec. 20, 2016
Originally Published: Dec. 11, 2015
In a recent announcement, Sarah Thompson, the CEO of a major tech company, welcomed the arrival of her identical twin daughters, bringing her total to three children, including her three-year-old son, Max. Instead of celebrating this joyful news, however, the internet erupted with criticism, accusing her of being an inadequate mother for choosing to return to work so soon after giving birth. This response highlights a troubling truth: successful mothers often face the harshest judgment.
Thompson is no stranger to controversy, having previously taken a mere two-week maternity leave after her first child. She has indicated that her approach will be similar this time, citing a healthy pregnancy and the critical state of her company as reasons for her quick return. “This is a unique time for our business, and I plan to handle this pregnancy just like I did with my son,” she shared with a major publication.
It is entirely her choice how to manage her maternity leave. The specifics of her support system at home are nobody’s concern, and she shouldn’t feel compelled to justify her decisions to anyone.
Importantly, we must consider her position: Sarah is not just another employee; she’s at the helm of a long-established tech giant, navigating a challenging transformation. Her role is vital, and it’s understandable that she wants to resume her responsibilities swiftly. After all, there aren’t many individuals who can step into a CEO’s shoes.
Moreover, Thompson had previously disclosed that she set up a nursery and hired a nanny to be close to her office after the arrival of her son. Yet, the internet continues to express disdain for her commitment to both her career and her family. The notion that women “can’t have it all” seems to fuel the harsh criticism directed at her:
“Clearly, her priorities are misplaced. What will she say to her children when they’re older and realize she wasn’t there for them?”
Critics seem to overlook that she will still spend time with her kids, even if it’s limited to evenings. The idea that she can’t balance work and motherhood is absurd.
Some have even expressed resentment over her decision to return to work:
“Dear Mom, could you at least wait until we’re born before rushing back to your job? You’re the CEO? Oh. Well, I guess we’ll see you on weekends then.”
For many, the purpose of working is to provide for their families, and once children enter the picture, priorities shift. But with her financial success, critics argue she should take time off. Isn’t that the point of hard work?
These comments stem from a culture that questions working mothers in ways that it never does with fathers. No one scrutinizes how James Carter, a prominent tech leader, balances work and family. He may take extended paternity leave, but his success shields him from backlash.
Thompson, like all working parents, is striving to navigate the demands of her job and family. The unfair comments assume too much without knowing her schedule or how she manages childcare. If she took longer maternity leave, she would likely face criticism for not being committed enough to her role. Yet, by returning quickly, she’s labeled a negligent mother.
In reality, she deserves praise for her decisions, which reflect her circumstances and priorities. It’s disheartening that society often resents women who dare to excel in both their careers and motherhood.
This article originally appeared on December 11, 2015.
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Summary
Sarah Thompson’s recent experience after the birth of her twins illustrates the harsh judgment successful mothers face when balancing career and family. Despite her qualifications and the importance of her role, she has been criticized for prioritizing work soon after her children’s arrival. The backlash highlights societal biases against working mothers, who often cannot win regardless of their choices.