Becoming a mum was the single biggest change I’ve ever been through in my life!

I went from being someone very sure of what I was doing in my career to having to work my way through the absolute basics. I went through what I am sure all new mums go through – navigating the significant changes in my life and relationships whilst trying to do my best for the tiny human now in my care.

Throughout this time, I was particularly thankful to my amazing supportive husband and my own mum who helped me navigate early motherhood and were there to support me every step of the way.

I found maternity leave very difficult being something I call “busy bored”: constantly busy and never a moment to yourself, but also lacking mental stimulation and adult engagement. I absolutely loved being at home with Jasper, but also know that my career has always been important to me. I have always been very determined that being a mum won’t stop me from achieving in my career and women should be given opportunities despite their childbearing capacity and childcare responsibilities.

I have been determined to achieve my career goals whilst being a present and engaged mum; I don’t get it right every day but I try my best!

Returning to work from maternity leave has been the biggest juggle; the transition to childcare was really tricky for us and then childcare sickness has been relentless. Juggling each day is a very busy role; with a really young child who needs and wants his mum leaves me exhausted but I also wouldn’t have it any other way.

Since returning to work I have taken on a new role and responsibilities, and have started studying full-time again to do my Master in Healthcare Leadership.

I have a background as a Registered Nurse and aged care has always been my home. My long-term goals definitely involve staying in the sector.

I can’t wait to see where my career takes me and my family and have found working at ACH Group to be a really supportive and flexible environment for raising a young family.

Jasper is very busy! He is always on some sort of mission. He is a very clever and talkative little boy; he learns new words every day and surprises us constantly with his understanding and comprehension. He LOVES dancing and singing to music – particularly The Wiggles. He loves to draw and play with cars and is happiest when he is outside. As a family we love camping and going on adventures; one day we would love to do some extended travel around our beautiful country.

This Mother’s Day I will spend the day with my family including my own mum. We aren’t big on gifts but will enjoy a nice lunch slow cooked roast lamb (thanks Dad!).

I often laugh with my husband about sitting in management or board meetings, making important decisions all day, and then going home to perform a personal Wiggles concert in the kitchen for a toddler for a giggle and a round of applause.

I think that really summarises being a working mum!

It’s busy, it’s a juggle, and it isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely worth it.