So, I am a self-admitted multi-tasker. I have a problem saying no. I know that I often get really, really, really close to biting off more than I can chew. And as a working mom, I try as many of us women do, to do it all, or at least appear like I am. I try to give off the image that I can easily take care of myself, my kids, my husband, my patients, my home, my kids’ school, my friendships and my life with such ease.
Every now and then, I will get a friend or patient who asks me, “How do you do it? Do you even sleep?” OK, I admit I don’t sleep much, but I’m not up at 3 a.m. being productive and writing this article. Instead, I’m hiding under the bed covers, playing Candy Crush or shopping online. Shhhh. Don’t tell.
It may appear as if I am accomplished, but I’m going to tell you my secret, and it’s only three letters long: Mom.
I have the most beautiful, happy, caring, loving momma in the whole world. It is because of her help that I can work full time, raise a family, maintain a weekly date night with the hubby, travel for work and pleasure, and eat fantastic home-cooked meals regularly, made by my mom, who also works full time.
So please, fellow women and mothers – don’t even feel a little bit like a failure as a woman/mother/wife because you may think I do more. Don’t call me “amazing,” because I am not. My mom is the amazing one. My mother is the support that allows me to achieve my goals. She is my role model.
So, what’s most important here is that I want to acknowledge her. Thank you, Mom, for being a glowing example of what I can do, and what I should be. It is because of you that, so far, I have been able to chew every bite. I love you.
— Dr. Sandra Lee is a dermatologist in private practice in Upland, at SkinPhysicians & Surgeons.