Embracing the Juggle: Reflection on Motherhood, Career, and Balance

Guest blog by Kate Bailey, Colmore BID Board Director, Safe & Sound Working Group Lead and Partner at Squire Patton Boggs (UK) LLP.

As I sit at my desk on Edmund Street, I glance at a post-it note from my five-year-old son that reads, “I luf yoo mummy,” and I can’t help but smile. I’ve stuck it on my computer monitor as a gentle reminder of what truly matters amidst the chaos of life. It’s so easy to get lost in work and responsibilities, but that little note helps me refocus on what is most important.

I’m a mum to two young children, a wife to a busy husband, and a full-time partner in a global corporate law firm, Squire Patton Boggs. I also serve as a Director on the Colmore BID Board, lead the Safe & Sound Working Group, and am a trustee of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. My life is a constant balancing act. With Mother’s Day approaching, I’ve taken some time to reflect on my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

The Juggle is Real

Let’s be honest — the juggle is real! I’m recently back from maternity leave and already facing illness and childcare issues. With children, one thing is always certain: plans will not go as planned. Some weeks, I feel like I’m in survival mode — and that’s OK. I’ve realised that it’s not about perfection. Some days, the family takes priority, and on others, I might only see my kids for five minutes. As much as I’d love to be present 100% of the time, I’ve accepted that it’s not realistic.

One of the biggest challenges is managing “mum guilt.” There are days when it feels impossible to balance everything, and I feel guilty for not being able to spend more time with my children. But I remind myself that I work because I want to – because it brings me purpose and fulfilment. I shouldn’t feel guilty for doing something that helps me grow. My hope is that my children will understand this when they’re older and respect my choices.

Navigating the Transition back to work

For anyone returning to work after parental leave, my advice is simple: Be strategic about your career and take responsibility for your path. Think about your goals and the support you need and communicate openly with your employer. Careers are rarely linear; they wobble up and down, and that’s OK. Be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned and take time for family if that’s right for you.

When I returned to work after the birth of my first child, I pushed for partnership at my firm. It was challenging — late nights, early mornings, and sacrifices — but the support I received from my family, colleagues, and employer made all the difference.

Find Time for You

Carving out time for yourself is essential but often the first thing to go when you’re busy. Still, I’ve learned that finding something to recharge is necessary, whether it’s exercise, reading, or exploring something creative. You need to find your “flow”— something that gives your mind a break. This is where I struggle the most, but I do as much as I can. As a friend recently said, you’re not supposed to be a partner in a law firm with two young children and work out every day!

Outsourcing and Support

Support, both internal and external, is vital. If you can afford it, outsource as much as you can. Hiring a cleaner, gardener, and finding reliable childcare might cost a fortune, but it will save your mental and emotional health. For me, outsourcing some of the day-to-day tasks allows me to do my job and see my family. It would be impossible otherwise.

Do What Makes You Happy

One of the most fulfilling parts of my life is the work I do outside my primary career. As a Board Director at Colmore BID, I’m proud of our efforts to improve the business community and address issues like homelessness and women’s safety. Similarly, my role with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has been incredibly rewarding. It’s fulfilling to contribute to an organisation that saves lives and impacts communities across multiple counties. I’ve learned so much from my fellow board Directors and feel privileged to contribute.

What Really Matters

I won’t pretend to have mastered the elusive work-life balance. Nothing is ever perfectly balanced, especially with young children and a demanding career. But whenever I start to feel overwhelmed, I glance at that post-it on my desk, take a moment to refocus, and remember that what matters most to me is my family.

To all the jugglers out there — Happy Mother’s Day! Keep going, and remember, you’re doing amazing things every single day.