Ever wondered how on earth your parents managed to juggle a full-time job, household chores, and raising kids? You’re not alone. TikToker and mom FamPhiji voiced her perplexity over how previous generations did it all, and boy, did it spark some debate!
In her TikTok video, FamPhiji uses a mix of awe and exhaustion to question the almost superhuman abilities of her own mother: “How did you manage to wake up, get yourself dressed, get me ready, take me to school, hold a full-time job, come back, pick me up, feed me, bathe me, and then do it all over again the next day?” She wasn’t just asking rhetorically; she genuinely wanted answers!
I mean, seriously, today’s moms struggle with balancing work and life despite technological advancements like microwaves, washing machines, and let’s not forget, the magic of pre-made meals. So what’s the secret?
Working Moms Rarely Get a Break
FamPhiji’s video highlighted the relentless grind most working mothers face, leaving little room for any kind of break. Turns out, many of her viewers felt the same way. Comments poured in, with people sharing their stories and advice.
Image credits: Ketut Subiyanto / Pexels (not the actual photo)
Why This Generation is Burnt Out
FamPhiji continued in her video:
“I’m tired. I don’t know if I can do this. How am I supposed to have the energy to do all of this? Where do I find the patience? How do you find time to clean, cook, keep the house together? Time for yourself? Where is the balance?”
Image credits:_phiji
This wasn’t just a rant; it was an SOS call from a parent who’s had enough. And can we blame her? The 24/7 grind is real, folks.
Let’s Talk Workplace Discrimination
Here’s the kicker: being a mom can actually hurt your career. Yep, you heard that right. Some employers consider motherhood a “distraction” and a financial risk due to things like maternity leave and the dreaded lost productivity from, you know, kids getting sick.
Image credits:_phiji
“Motherhood penalty” is a term sociologists use to describe the wage gap and overlooked promotions moms often face. In contrast, there’s the “fatherhood bonus,” where dads are seen as more responsible and thus more deserving of promotions and raises. Ah, the joys of gender inequality!
Discrimination in Hiring
It gets worse. The bias is so ingrained that mothers often don’t get hired over childless candidates. Here’s the jaw-dropping part: even when it became more normalized for women to join the workforce, old prejudices lingered like a bad cold.
Image credits: Jep Gambardella / Pexels (not the actual photo)
Where’s the Support?
Many working moms don’t get the support they need—both at work and at home. Whether it’s single parenting or an able-bodied partner who still leaves most of the childcare to the mom, these women are doing it all. And let’s not forget the relentless pressure to excel in a demanding job while ensuring your child is thriving.
Commenters Weigh In
Many folks pitched in with their thoughts on why it’s more challenging today compared to earlier generations. Some suggested societal changes, increased awareness of mental health, and just an overall higher standard for parenting. Others weren’t so sure there was a secret to begin with—just hard work and persistence.
A Mountain of Work
While messages of support and camaraderie poured in, some said outright that there was no secret—just a mountain of relentless work. “Rich people had careers; the rest of us had jobs,” commented one user. Not everyone had a perfect balance or a fairy-tale solution. The real heroes were the ones who just kept at it, day in and day out.
Final Thoughts from Sonia
After sifting through countless comments and perspectives, I’m convinced that while there may never be a one-size-fits-all secret to balancing work and childcare, solidarity among parents—sharing tips, tricks, and yes, even just venting—goes a long way. And hey, if our parents did it, maybe, just maybe, we can too. So here’s to every frazzled parent out there doing the best they can. Keep going. We’re in this together!
