The Beautiful Chaos: Opening a Closed Door

The Decision to Return to Work

My decision to return to work after more than 15 years was not made overnight. It was a monumental choice that significantly impacted not only my life but also my family’s.

Both of my children are now at school—my eldest, aged 11, has settled into his new Senior School, while my youngest, aged 9, is thriving in her many after-school extracurricular activities. With both kids old enough to understand that their mother needed something beyond the routine of cooking and cleaning, the timing felt right to explore new opportunities.

After countless discussions and deep deliberation, I decided to take the plunge and re-enter the workforce. However, this was far from an easy feat. I registered my CV on online platforms like Indeed and Reed, but I quickly discovered that the job market offered limited flexible options for mothers seeking part-time roles that could accommodate the school run and family commitments.

The search for the perfect role stretched over a year, testing my patience and resolve, but persistence ultimately paid off. I finally secured an Admin role that aligned with my needs. The transition was challenging—starting a new job, meeting new colleagues, and acquiring unfamiliar skills felt daunting. Balancing the demands of children, household chores, and family life added yet another layer of complexity.

However, this journey back to work represents more than just personal triumph. It reflects the resilience, strength, and adaptability that women bring to every facet of life. As we celebrate National Women’s Day, I am reminded of the countless women who, like me, navigate these pivotal crossroads—juggling family, self-care, and aspirations with unwavering determination.

National Women’s Day stands as a reminder to recognise the often-invisible labour of women, honour their achievements, and strive for workplaces that embrace flexibility while upholding opportunities. For those of us who stepped away from the workforce to nurture our families, the prospect of re-entering can feel overwhelming. Yet every small step forward proves that we are capable of embracing change and redefining success on our terms.

To every woman reading this: let’s honour ourselves—not just for our milestones but for the effort, resilience, and dreams that fuel our journey. Together, we are creating a future that celebrates women in all their multifaceted roles.

Written by Elizabeth Wood