The Maternal Forge: Crafting Career Resilience Through Motherhood Experiences

In recent years, with the growth of dual-earners and non-traditional gender roles, motherhood leaders may not be uncommon. However, some studies have pointed out that the motherhood status is a disadvantage for women in the workplace (Heilman & Okimoto, 2008). Working mothers may also suffer from a myriad of maternal bias (Arena Jr et al., 2023). This chapter endeavours to bridge the existing literature gaps, aiming at fostering an understanding of the overlooked benefits of motherhood experiences in developing resilience in the career development process. We identify the factors that may enhance the application of motherhood-inculcated resilience in working roles. We argue that motherhood embodies a myriad of challenges that require adaptability, patience, and problem-solving capabilities. Anecdotal evidence suggests that these skills cultivated through motherhood could be invaluable in career development. The skills and experiences garnered through motherhood could thus potentially translate into effective career abilities in organisational settings for female managers and professionals.