Imagine working 24 hours a day, seven days a week with no breaks. That’s what being a mother is like. For working mothers, there is an added challenge of striking a balance between being a parent and work. Yet, these incredible women manage to juggle between their roles day in and out, being there for their family while making great strides professionally at their workplace.  

This Mother’s Day, we caught up with four mothers from Frasers Property Retail who shared with us how motherhood has changed them, some of the memorable moments they have had with their children, and how they destress and recharge as a working mother. 

1. How has your perspective changed since becoming a mother?

Faye: Motherhood has certainly changed my perspective on life. My priorities have changed and it has motivated me to become a better version of myself. I find myself having more patience, being calmer and much happier!

Phyllis: Nothing can ever prepare you for the challenges of motherhood. At times, perfect moments can quickly change and be filled with apprehension or even frustration. I no longer sweat over the small stuff and always look ahead and stay positive. 

As a mother, I quickly realised that you must brave yourself to be ready to face any challenges that are thrown your way, at times unexpectedly. Having a good sense of humour and the ability to stay calm have helped me to become a better mother. 

Siti Nurhuda: Motherhood is a life-changing experience that comes with no manual. You’ll come to learn about the strengths you did not know you have and deal with fears that you did not know existed. It has helped me grown as a person and learn more about myself.  

Udrena: Motherhood has changed me as a person. My girl’s wellbeing is now my top concern and it has also helped me realise the inner strength and confidence I never knew I had. 

2. Can you share a particularly memorable moment that you have had with your children?

Faye: My family is currently based in Malaysia and needless to say, it is always very difficult for me when I have to leave them for work. I will always remember the day when I sent my six-year-old daughter to school before returning to Singapore. On that day, she told me that she will stay strong and not cry as she did not want me to worry about her. It was at that moment when I realised she has grown up. 

Instead of crying, she encouraged me and I am very proud of the person she has grown to be today! 

Phyllis: The list is endless, there are just too many to recollect. Going through life’s ups and downs is already an experience in itself, with countless memories to cherish for many years to come. Watching my girls flourish and blossom each day never fails to spark joy and pride in me, reminding me of how incredibly lucky I am to have them in my life. 

Siti Nurhuda: There is no particular moment that comes to mind but seeing my children grow up is such a rewarding experience. My sons have their own motorbikes now and my older daughter drives, so they often bring me around in their motorbikes or car. Oh, how time flies!

Udrena: The most memorable moment would have to be when I first held my girl in my arms. That feeling was so surreal that it’s something I cannot describe in words.

3. What was it like working from home as a mother during the Covid-19 pandemic?

Faye: When the company-wide work-from-home policy was implemented, I was lucky to be able to return back to Malacca and work remotely from my home. I really appreciate the flexibility given by my superior and colleagues, and being reunited with my daughter was definitely worthwhile! 

Phyllis: Working from home provided me with a good balance between doing my job and being there for my family.

Siti Nurhuda: I am blessed with three older children so working from home has not impacted my productivity much as they take turns to look after the little one. I will just need to prepare meals early in the morning and work silently from my room so that the youngest one doesn’t notice me.

Udrena: On top of having more time with my girl, working from home also gave me the privilege to watch my daughter grow and reach different milestones. I consider myself lucky to give birth during the Covid-19 pandemic.

4. Juggling both work and home must not have been easily! How do you destress?

Faye: I love destressing by travelling, shopping, and eating good food.

Phyllis: I often spend time with my girls to destress. I adore the Netflix series The Crown while my younger girl enjoys the MasterChef series. Cooking for the family, trying out new recipes as well as shopping online with the girls are some of our favourite past times. 

Siti Nurhuda: I make sure to have some me-time every month! Typically, I would head out for a drink, book a spa, go for a manicure and pedicure, and hang out with my friends! 

Udrena: I would usually go for a run or a Zumba class to destress and keep fit at the same time!

5. As a mother, if you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Faye: I wish that I can have 48 hours every day so that I can travel back to Malaysia daily and spend more time with my loved ones. 

Phyllis: To freeze time so that I can capture each precious moment and cherish them in my mind and heart. As the saying goes – a moment lasts all of a second, but the memory lives on forever. This quote truly resonates with me.

Siti Nurhuda: Technically not a superpower but I would like the ability to turn invisible and go through walls. That way, I can enter places without a key and check in on my children without invading their physical and emotional space. 

Udrena: If I could have one superpower, I would love to have control over time because 24 hours a day is never enough now that I have my daughter. Time spent with her is so precious!

Motherhood is definitely not an easy journey with its share of ups and downs. We salute all mothers out there for their unconditional love and sacrifices made for their family. Wishing all mothers a very happy Mother’s Day!