Wharton Professor Reveals 5 Mindset Shifts for Working Moms

In her new book, Having It All: What Data Tells Us About Women’s Lives and Getting the Most Out of Yours, Corinne Low, an economist and professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, outlines critical insights aimed at helping working mothers reclaim their time and happiness. Low’s research highlights the unique challenges women face at home and in the workplace, revealing how these pressures often hinder their ability to thrive.

Low’s findings indicate that women are increasingly squeezed by demanding roles both professionally and personally. As labor market participation rises, the responsibilities at home have remained disproportionately high. According to her research, two main factors contribute to this imbalance: first, men’s contributions to household duties have stagnated since the 1970s, and second, parenting expectations have intensified significantly compared to previous generations.

Data-Driven Insights on Time Inequality

Reflecting on her personal experiences, Low noted that after the birth of her son in 2017, she faced a midlife crisis as her previous routine no longer felt sustainable. The stress of juggling a demanding job with parenting responsibilities led her to investigate women’s time use, revealing a pattern of time inequality that peaks during their thirties—a period she refers to as “the squeeze.” During this time, women typically engage in significantly more childcare and household tasks, leaving them with less time for leisure and career advancement.

Low emphasized that achieving balance requires a shift in mindset. “Your goal in life is utility, not career success,” she remarked. She encourages women to assess their personal utility functions, which encompass the joy and fulfillment derived from various life aspects. This self-reflection can help them prioritize what truly matters rather than comparing themselves to others.

Rethinking Careers and Household Dynamics

Low advocates for a transactional view of careers, where jobs are seen primarily as tools for converting time into money. She suggests that most individuals would not choose to climb the corporate ladder if financial constraints were removed; instead, they would focus on meaningful activities that enhance their quality of life. The challenge lies in strategically navigating careers to ensure that they align with personal happiness.

She also urges women to reconsider how household responsibilities are divided. By tracking time spent on various tasks, both partners can gain clarity on the actual division of labor at home. Low argues that many men underestimate their partners’ contributions, leading to an imbalance that can be addressed through open communication and negotiation.

Low’s recommendations extend to making tough choices about commitments that drain time and energy. She encourages women to let go of obligations that do not contribute to their well-being, advocating for a mindset shift towards prioritizing personal happiness.

She concludes with a powerful reminder: “We have to become ruthless in aligning our time with what gives us utility.” By blocking out time for leisure and self-care, women can reclaim their days and invest in what truly brings them joy.

Corinne Low’s insights provide a compelling framework for working mothers seeking to enhance their lives amidst the complexities of modern parenting and professional demands. Her research not only sheds light on the systemic challenges women face but also offers actionable steps to foster a more balanced and fulfilling life.