Without a doubt, it was when I found out I was pregnant with my first daughter right as I was preparing to put my hand up for the next elevation at work. The timing was…complex. I was torn. Should I disclose my pregnancy or wait until the decision is made? Would a promotion mean I’d be biting off more than I could chew? Would I be able to do justice to the new role?
I am a fan of being radically candid, so I decided to share the news with my supervising partner. He was incredibly supportive, but what was most memorable and still remains so for me is what happened next. One of the very senior male partners, who I’d only done very limited work with and who didn’t have kids himself, heard about the news. When he saw me the following week at our firm’s retreat, he walked across the room and gave me a huge hug and congratulated me – right there, in front of everyone.
It might sound small, but it meant the world to me. In that single, spontaneous gesture of support and warmth, all my doubts, fears, and anxieties melted away. I felt seen – all of me, with my growing bump I was so conflicted about hiding. I felt enabled. And I felt like I didn’t have to choose between ambition and motherhood. I’ll never forget that moment. It taught me that culture isn’t about policies… it’s about people. Kindness is all it takes to make a difference – a smile, a check-in, a hug.
If you could relive one day in your life, which day would it be and why?
If I could relive one day, it would be any day from our family vacation in Philadelphia last year. I met my now husband in Philly and the place is very special to us. We packed so much joy into those days exploring museums, feasting on incredible food, hiking, biking, and soaking in the energy of the amazing city.