43: On Climbing the Career Ladder When You Haven’t Gone to University, and Single Motherhood When You're Co-Parenting Following an Acrimonious Divorce

In this anonymous work-life balance confession, I share the story of "Susan" (not her real name) who revealed in a confidential interview the emotional and financial struggles she contends with in pursuit of her balance between work and everything else in life.I share Susan's story of the crushing pressure of managing life on her own, with inadequate financial support from her ex-husband and the weight of constantly putting on a brave face for her kids.Her story is one of hidden anxiety, self-doubt, and the deep desire to break the cycles of financial instability and unfulfilled potential in her family.Having never attended university, Susan's journey highlights the extra barriers many face when trying to advance in their careers without formal education.But despite these challenges, Susan’s determination to secure a better future for her children and herself shines through.In summary, this episode touches on the work-life balance impacts of:📚Having left school at 16 and not gaining further qualifications or attending university.💍 Breaking out of an unhappy marriage and undergoing an acrimonious divorce, which involves disputes over finances of raising children.🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Breaking repetitive destructive cycles of family choices around work and everything else in life.😔 Experiencing "imposter syndrome" at work and not feeling you deserve to be in your job.❤️‍🩹Giving yourself "permission" to take care of your own needs and desires when you're responsible for caring for others.RELATED LINKS:Susan’s Story – Climbing High: on Single Motherhood and Social Mobility: https://a-fine-balance.com/2021/01/20/susans-story-climbing-high-on-single-motherhood-and-social-mobility/.Soli’s Story – “Sunny-Side Up, Please”: Self-Care for Caring Professionals, Finding Balance in Mid-Life & Staying Positive When the Course of Motherhood Doesn’t Run Smooth: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/1-on-self-care-the-power-of-a-positive/id1570430336?i=1000530012085On Finding Balance in Grief, Being a High-Achiever & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome-Katie's Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/10-on-finding-balance-in-grief-being-a-high/id1570430336?i=1000602674042