The Unseen Hero: How a Single Working Mom Shaped My Journey

In the Eastern European region during the transition from communism to a democratic society, being a single mother often meant facing significant social and economic challenges. My mother, however, defied these norms, showing resilience and determination that influenced my life profoundly.

Embracing Education and Professional Growth

My mother, though barely 21 at the time of my birth, managed to complete her M.A. degree while working. This decision not only helped financially but also instilled in me a sense of adult responsibility and ambition. Professional growth did not hinder her ability to be a great mother. When we were financially stable, I would attend a nursery or have a nanny, but during tough times, she would take me with her to her tutoring sessions.

For instance, she would spend her evenings from 3 PM to 9 PM tutoring children in piano playing. Although I was a young child, she made every session an adventure. She would ask for my opinions on her student's performances, making me feel responsible and mature. This memory stands out as one of my best and most vivid.

Adapting to New Challenges: Learning Norwegian

As a teenager, I began to realize the severity of our financial situation. One of the most remarkable instances was when my mother decided to move us to a new country, Norway, to find a better life. She faced significant challenges, but her approach to solving them was inspiring.

Within four months, she learned Norwegian from scratch, dedicating her evenings and weekends to study. This period was arduous, but never did she make it seem like it was too tough. Instead, she presented it as a new adventure, helping us adapt to the new environment. This move allowed her to secure a job in a pre-school in Oslo, where we moved shortly afterward.

Despite the challenges, she managed single-handedly, handling all the paperwork, securing my enrollment in school, and helping me learn the new language. She never made it seem like her life would have been easier without me. In fact, she always highlighted the importance of the journey rather than the obstacles.

Lecturing at the University and Achieving Success

Years later, my mother, having faced numerous challenges, turned her life around. She is now a lecturer at a university and lives in a dream home. Her journey from a single working mom to a successful academician is a testament to her resilience and hard work.

Her experiences have profoundly impacted my life, especially when I became a single mum myself at 23 while pursuing a business. Understanding that managing a child and a business simultaneously could be tough, thanks to my mother's guidance, I never lost sight of my goals. Her unwavering support and motivation have been instrumental in my journey.

Conclusion

Every mother plays a crucial role in shaping their child's future, but for single working mothers, the impact can be even more transformative. My mother's journey is a prime example of navigating life's challenges with resilience and grace. The lessons she imparted will continue to guide me, reminding me of the strength found in perseverance and the importance of hard work.

For those looking to read more about combining parenting and entrepreneurship, I encourage you to check out my blog post here. You can learn from her experiences and gain valuable insights into managing both.

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