The Power of Two: Cristie’s Heart of a Mother and a Hustle of a Manager

It’s been a year since I became a mom and what a ride it has been! Last year, I was just a regular staff member. But now, on top of that, I am now a mom. Coming back from maternity leave was emotional in ways I didn’t expect.  I only had four months of full-time leave, and that transition back wasn’t easy.  Aside from being a new mom and working on my tasks, I was moved to a new team and had to adjust to a new engagement. So, there I was, learning how to be a mom and re-learning my work, all at once.

Honestly, juggling my duties as a senior manager and my responsibilities as a mom, took a tough toll on me emotionally and mentally. My husband and I both had to work and like other moms who are so emotionally attached to their children, being away from my son felt like a stab in my heart. However, I already knew before then that sacrifices must be made and eventually most of my time will be spent at work. So, I learned to set boundaries between work and life. That’s why I made myself some non-negotiables: To protect my weekends. No extra work, just time with family. 

But regardless of living a difficult, “double” life, motherhood also changed how I see my team. I’ve become more patient and empathetic, especially toward other working moms. When someone suddenly has to attend to their child, I don’t have second thoughts and just let them because I’ve been there. We support each other in a way that only moms can. It is an unspoken bond that we back each other up, no questions asked.

This is why I’m so grateful for the culture we have at P&A Grant Thornton. A lot of my friends here are moms too, and their advice helped me discover and learn from this new chapter. I’m also proud to be in a team that shows understanding, especially when unexpected things happen to my child. My colleagues cut off half of my worries because they make sure everything’s covered, and every engagement is handled.

And if there’s three things I’ve learned, it’s this: moms need to take care of themselves, too. Because your child draws strength from you. Second, it's essential that you and your partner help each other and choose to be practical in any aspect needed. Finally, if you get the chance to spend time with your children, grab it. Make every moment count because time flies so fast, you’ll be seeing them all grown up in just a blink of an eye.

To my baby boy, if ever you get a chance to read this, I know we can’t give you everything right now, but Mommy and Daddy are doing their best to build a good future for you. I hope when you grow up, you’ll see how much love we put into everything, and that you’ll pass that love on to others, too. You’re our biggest blessing and our reason why. We love you!