Two kids later, I’ve come to the conclusion that the phrase “working mom” might be the most redundant and over-used saying.
Every mom works. All the time. We’re referees, chauffeurs, chefs, maids, nurses (usually in the same night). Some moms (like me) just have to split time between a full-time CPA and a full-time mom.
And both jobs are fulfilling and I would miss working if I was home all the time, but at the same time, I do miss things at home. So, (working) mom life requires you to be an excellent juggler. Every day I have about 20 balls in the air. And sometimes (okay, most days) balls drop. And roll under the couch, next to the stale cheerios, dust bunnies, forgotten Shopkins (who has time to vacuum under there?!). And that’s okay, because digging that ball out from under the couch sometimes gives you the opportunity to just stop for a second. And maybe play on the floor and roll a car back to your son. Or have a princess parade with your daughter.
Accountants, in general, are lucky in the sense that we have jobs where if a ball drops, it’s usually not life or death. I have told my staff many times (usually while reminding myself) that no one is going to die on the table. Because it’s true. We’re accountants,not brain surgeons. And while our jobs are very important, it’s just as important to keep perspective. Small firms can provide a great opportunity to mix the challenge and variety that is sometimes lacking in corporate accounting with the ability to have a more flexible schedule and work-life balance the Big 4 and many mid-size firms can’t always deliver. So I encourage (working) moms or those that are thinking about it, not to be scared off by a career in public accounting. You just need to find the right firm that values you (and your perspective) and you can have both.
Aimee Urnikis, CPA
Audit Manager
