Under the Glossy Veneer…The Race to Become Superwoman

Despite International Women’s Day on March 8 celebrating women, most of us are still running ragged in an effort to do it all. The end result is women are neglecting themselves entirely in the process to become superwoman.  

The Impact
For women with demanding careers, balancing the superwoman myth can be a tough task as it means juggling excellence in work, home, social life, and relationships. The problem is that when bombarded by stress, some women have begun to suffer from similar ailments that busy, successful, overworked men have long endured: ulcers, depression, headaches, and recurrent viral infections. The art of multi-tasking has made women strive to excel in multiple roles and ultimately, we end up victims of our own success- the more a woman shows she can do, the more others demand of her.  

Solutions to Help Find Balance 

  • There are shortcuts to looking like superwoman without the stress of really being one; it is called prioritizing.  
  • Learn to switch mental gears from work to family as and when required.  
  • Seek out employment that would allow flexible timings with employers who understand the several roles played by working women and who understand family emergencies.  
  • Working from home can also help a woman achieve her goals and do justice to her multiple roles. 
  • When at work, be physically and mentally present at work without worrying about the husband or mother or child. Similarly when with a child, be totally available to the child and his/her needs. 
  • Give yourself some time alone with absolutely no obligations to replenish the lost mental and physical energy.  
  • Work out regularly to regain strength and vitality to carry out all roles and responsibilities.