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Maternal Optimism: Forging Positive Paths Through Work and Motherhood

Every working mother's path is unique and should be celebrated, not lamented. Yet all too frequently, working mothers are presented with advice, rules to follow or guidelines as if all women's experiences are the same and a one-size-fits-all solution is appropriate.

'MATERNAL OPTIMISM' aims to provide listeners with stories and research that support the notion of women owning and feeling confident in the choices they make, as they navigate a complex series of work and family transitions. This book challenges the impulse to reduce work/life challenges to a single point in time, such as the decision to return to work after the birth of a child; instead, it recognizes that work and family decisions are anything but stagnant. They shift as life and career shift and are often filled with unpredictable events.

By understanding and anticipating these shifts, working mothers can develop the resiliency they need at home and at work. This book is a resource for all professional women as they approach the difficulties and the joys of growing a family and a career.




RUNNING TIME ⇒ 7hrs. and 42mins.

©2019 Jamie Ladge and Danna Greenberg (P)2020 Tantor

Audible Audio

First published May 15, 2019

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Jamie Ladge

2 books1 follower

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5 stars
10 (47%)
4 stars
6 (28%)
3 stars
2 (9%)
2 stars
1 (4%)
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2 (9%)
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Jamie.
11 reviews
March 17, 2021
Comprehensive academic resource and go-to practical resource for the entire life course of motherhood. Easy to read with key takeaways included at the end of each chapter. Non-judgmental and interdisciplinary. Highly recommend for working women, men and leaders who want to support working women/mothers, etc.
55 reviews1 follower
March 6, 2020
There was nothing new or interesting in this book. The authors just tell you what exists. Some moms work. Some don’t. If you want a flexible schedule, you need to talk to your boss and HR department. You can also work from home. Or you can stop working. It felt like a waste of time.
Profile Image for Bianca.
1,152 reviews9 followers
October 3, 2026
A book that gives you information and strategies around working motherhood from pre-conception through to when they leave for college and may return. This book was a must read for my PhD!
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews