Women and Multiple Roles

By Sarah Haug, Psy.D

Who are we as women? We are mom, grandma, wife, sister, business partner, manager, coach, co-worker, supervisor… the list seems endless. Not to say that men don’t take on multiple roles, but women (moms in particular) appear particularly ‘gifted’ with multi-tasking. When examining the research on women and multiple roles, I was surprised to find that data from studies on women and multiple roles suggests that women are actually happier when provided opportunities to fulfill goals across multiple areas of interest (and not more stressed by doing so). It would seem that we women want opportunities to explore ourselves to our fullest potential, and those who are able to do so experience more pleasure in life.  

So, if taking on multiple roles will make us happier, how exactly do we do this with our crazy lives?  Further, how do we do this and take care of everyone else at the same time?  This question elicits the core question:  When is it okay to take care of myself?  The answer is:  It is not only okay, but necessary to you as a mom, spouse, co-worker, coach and person.

What I am suggesting is taking a step back and really looking at your core values, re-prioritizing your goals and commitments and consciously choosing how you spend your time and energy. This usually entails letting go of things that block your ability to meet your personal goals.  This always requires stopping and making conscious choices about what benefits you as person and as a woman in your many roles. 

Is this proposition a bit daunting? You bet. However, you do not have to do this alone. In fact, having a group or individuals who will support you in your journey of self-exploration is a necessary component to the equation. This is particularly true with women, who gravitate towards socialization and friendships for reinforcement and support. We seem to be wired this way.

For further exploration of women’s topics and issues in a supportive environment, please join me at the Wellness Connection for an eight-session series Women’s Group beginning this month. Meetings will take place on Sundays from 3:40 – 4:30 p.m. Call Wellness Connection at (703) 327-0335 for more information.