International Women’s Day. It’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, continue to push for change and to celebrate amazing women all over the world.
That’s why I wanted to write this letter to you. To our community, to the mothers, to everyone who’s been navigating this crazy train of parenthood and learning along the way. Motherhood is magical, but it’s also tough, and its important to take time to enjoy it because before you know it, they’ll be all grown up and going off to high school.
Those who know me well know that I started Baba+Boo with two children under two. Looking back it was a crazy thing to do. Going back to the job I did wasn’t an option, I wanted to be there for my children but I also needed something that allowed me to be me. I needed to use my brain, to keep learning and I was determined to offer parents a sustainable and affordable alternative to the usual.
The early years of Baba+Boo were a real struggle for me. Balancing my children and my work was a real challenge - I felt guilty for taking business calls when my children wanted my attention, I felt guilty attending business meetings, and I felt guilty that my attention wasn’t always 100% on them. But, taking those early steps into the unknown was one of the best decisions of my life, for me and for my children.
This guilt is nothing new. Mum guilt is something which isn’t always discussed. From leaving your child with a childminder or at nursery, to the small things such as not home cooking their food, even leaving them with grandparents so you can have a warm cup of tea, it’s important to know you’re definitely not alone in feeling that way. But you shouldn't feel guilty. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so taking a breath is good for them, not just you. If you feel guilty about going to work, just think that you are giving them the gift of a work ethic.
I feel guilty daily and for me, what gets me through is the knowledge that Baba+Boo is taking small steps to help bring about big changes. From over consumption to plastic pollution, we’re dedicated to offering alternatives to help parents live simpler, more sustainable lives, and we wouldn’t have been able to embark on this journey if it wasn’t for our community.
For me, Baba+Boo was a passion project which has spiralled into something which I truly love. I still get goosebumps when I read reviews and shout outs on social media from our customers about how our products have helped their lives. You guys are helping to bring about change. From shouting about reusables to the incredible peer-advice, you’re the spokeswomen for our products and without you, we wouldn’t be able to take these steps towards a more sustainable future for our children.
Everyone knows the old adage that we’re stronger together, and when it comes to the future of our planet this has never been truer. We know that we can’t save the world on our own, but if we come together to make small, sustainable changes, we can help to build a greener future.
So often I get contacted by women who praise my journey - I’m so grateful to you for elevating me and giving me the confidence to continue. But I also want to say that to every woman who thinks they can’t do the same, I’m here to tell you that you can.
Like everything in life, business and motherhood can be hard. I’ve been running Baba+Boo for 10 years and I’m still learning lessons every day. Just like in motherhood, we all make mistakes which we learn from, this is what helps us to grow.
Whilst we thank International Women’s Day for bringing these conversations to the forefront and for reminding people to take the time to celebrate amazing women all over the world… we should be celebrating female achievements every day.
Sometimes being a mum doesn’t leave you bursting with feelings that you’re changing the world. But you are. Mums all over the world are making differences in their own little way.
So, to all you mamas, we want to say thank you. You are all truly amazing.
PS. I wouldn't be where I am today without a wonderful husband supporting me and allowing me to become the best woman and mum I can be, as I am sure it is true for some of you reading this. So thank you to all the dads too.