As a Black woman, a wife, and a mom of six beautiful kids, life is full. Every single day, I’m balancing schedules, emotions, and dreams—both mine and theirs. For years, I tried to juggle it all while building a career, but eventually, I realized something had to give. That’s when I made the decision to pivot, to shift into a path that truly aligns with who I am and what my family needs.
Parenting—especially with a big family—isn’t for the faint of heart. Here are some physical effects that I experience that impacts how I show up in the world:
Parenting demands constant mental multitasking. From remembering appointments to solving unexpected problems, it’s like your brain is always running a marathon. This can lead to "brain farts," where it feels like there’s no room left for anything else.
Let’s be real—sleep is precious and often scarce. Interrupted sleep affects memory, focus, and even your immune system, making it harder to keep up with the day to day schedules.
As moms, we don’t just do the physical work—we carry the emotional weight, too. Managing your own feelings while guiding your children through theirs is no small task, and studies show this emotional labor can be draining.
The stress of caregiving can cause headaches, fatigue, and even long-term health issues. At the same time, running after kids and managing a household keeps you physically active, even when you don’t realize it.
Why I Pivoted My Career
For years, I tried to manage it all—career and family—but I found myself stretched too thin. I knew I needed to make a change, not just for me, but for my kids and my husband. So I made the choice to shift toward advocacy, focusing on literacy and wellness in my community. Here’s why:
I want to see a positive example for my children to see that it’s possible to do meaningful work while prioritizing family.
By pivoting, I created space for self-care, allowing me to show up as my best self—at home and in my work.
Through initiatives like "Just Read" and Creatively Fit, I’m able to give back to my community while staying connected to what matters most.
This career pivot wasn’t just about making life easier—it was about aligning my work with my purpose. My family is my heart, and my work is an extension of that love. By focusing on literacy and healthy living, I’m building something that benefits both my household and my community.
To my fellow moms, especially Black women navigating these same challenges: You are not alone. Parenting is one of the hardest and most beautiful things we do, and it’s okay to take a step back and reassess. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that choosing yourself and your family is always the right move.
Let’s keep lifting each other up. Together, we can build stronger families, healthier communities, and brighter futures—all while staying true to who we are.
With love always,
Cynecia
