The Reality of Work-Life Balance for Women in Humanitarian Careers
My recent reflections on LinkedIn focusing on work-life balance for women in the humanitarian sector sparked a powerful conversation. The reality is clear: while longevity in humanitarian work is already difficult, the unique challenges faced by women make it even tougher. The juggling act between an impactful career and family life often seems impossible, forcing many to make tough choices. Let's dive deeper into this struggle, explore common scenarios, and reflect on whether there are sustainable solutions.
The Balancing Act
It’s no surprise that the humanitarian sector, with its demands for on-the-ground presence and frequent travel, is uniquely challenging for anyone. But women, in particular, are disproportionately affected. Society's expectations around childbearing and caregiving responsibilities place an immense burden on them. Unlike their male counterparts, women are often at the crossroads of choosing between career advancement and family life, especially in humanitarian settings where work is intense and unpredictable.
On the flip side, let’s not forget that even for women who don’t have or want children, the desire for a rich life outside of work is just as valid. Pursuing personal passions, prioritizing friendships, caregiving for family and loved ones, and having the freedom to invest in self-care or travel are all crucial components of a fulfilling life. Balancing a humanitarian career doesn’t just mean making space for family but also for the hobbies, relationships, and experiences that make life meaningful. Your time and well-being deserve respect, no matter how you choose to spend it.
Reminiscing About the "Good Old Days"—And Gaining Perspective
A recent conversation with a friend based in Kabul brought these reflections into focus. We reminisced about our shared experiences in frontline humanitarian work, but for the first time, I didn’t feel a pang of envy. Yes, I am grateful for this part of my career I had the privilege of experience, the friendships, impactful work, and adrenaline-filled days. Alas, I also deeply appreciate my current situation: working in social impact, enjoying a more stable work environment, the opportunity to put my kids to bed on a regular basis, and a healthier balance between work and everything outside of work.
What Changed for Me?
I recognized that the appeal of short-term contracts and life in high-risk environments has faded. The stability, safety, and predictability of my current life have grown more valuable, especially as a parent. This shift in priorities isn’t unique to me; it’s a theme echoed by many former humanitarian colleagues, especially women.
The Career vs. Family Dilemma
Many women I know have grappled with this dilemma: Can you sustain a thriving humanitarian career and still prioritize family? For most, the answer hasn’t been easy. Here are some common scenarios I’ve seen:
Moving Away from Frontline Work: Women often transition into headquarters or administrative roles to be closer to family, sacrificing the direct impact and adrenaline of fieldwork.
Leaving the Sector Entirely: Burnout and an inability to meet both demands lead some to leave humanitarian work, transitioning into less demanding roles on the fringe of humanitarian work or different fields altogether.
Trying to Do It All: Some attempt to balance both, often ending up overstretched, fatigued, and feeling inadequate both as professionals and caregivers.
The Cost of Choosing
These scenarios come with a price: for those who move to headquarters, there’s a sense of loss for the fieldwork they love. For those who leave, there’s grief for a career once built with passion. And those who try to juggle everything? They face immense stress and risk burnout.
What Can Be Done to Support Women in Humanitarian Work?
The need for systemic change in the humanitarian sector is undeniable. Some potential solutions include:
Flexible Work Arrangements: Organizations can implement remote work options, flexible schedules, or shorter rotations to better accommodate the diverse needs of women, especially working mothers.
Parental Leave and Childcare Accommodations: Providing comprehensive parental leave policies and on-site childcare can empower women to continue working without compromising their family responsibilities.
Leadership Representation: Encouraging women to take on leadership roles and increasing female representation in senior positions ensures diverse perspectives and equitable decision-making.
Career Development, Mentorship, and Coaching: Access to mentorship programs and tailored coaching can help women advance their careers while feeling supported and empowered.
Inclusive Policies: Establishing and enforcing gender-inclusive policies ensures that women have equal opportunities and can work in environments free from discrimination.
Cultural Shifts Across the Sector: Promoting cultural change by challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for shared caregiving responsibilities can create a more equitable work environment.
Health and Wellbeing Support: Offering mental health resources, wellness programs, and self-care initiatives helps address the unique stressors women face in humanitarian work.
Safety and Security Measures: Tailoring safety protocols to address gender-specific risks, such as secure accommodation and travel options, is crucial for women working in high-risk areas.
Gender-Sensitive Leadership Trainings: Providing training that addresses unconscious biases and promotes gender sensitivity prepares leaders to create inclusive workplaces.
Recognition and Advocacy: Publicly celebrating women's contributions and advocating for their visibility in the sector helps normalize their roles and achievements.
Community Building: Facilitating peer support networks and communities where women can share experiences and resources fosters a sense of belonging and mutual growth.
My Personal Journey: Finding a New Balance
For me, stepping back from frontline work was a pivotal decision. It allowed me to embrace a different form of impact in the social impact sector, where I can still contribute meaningfully without sacrificing my life outside of work. This balance, though hard-won, is deeply rewarding, and it’s a topic that often surfaces in my coaching sessions with women in similar situations, or seeking transitions.
Seeking Examples of Women Who Thrive
Despite these difficulties, there are stories of women who make it work. But how? Do they have more support, understanding workplaces, or better resources? Do they have partners with less demanding or more flexible jobs? Do they do the international development/humanitarian couple hack where they take ‘turns’ with one partner following the other every other posting? Or have they found ways to advocate for policies that promote work-life balance? I’d love to hear your perspectives.
Are there women who’ve managed to balance a flourishing humanitarian career with a fulfilling family life? Your stories could provide hope and inspiration to others facing similar struggles. Balancing a humanitarian career with life outside of work is a topic that deserves more attention. If this resonates with you, or if you have experiences or insights to share, I’d love to hear from you. Your stories matter—and they might inspire someone who is navigating this exact challenge.
I cover these topics, and more, regularly on my blog and on LinkedIn. Connect, follow me, and sign up for my newsletter.
______________________________________________________________________________
Ready to find your balance? Want to connect with me directly?
If you’re curious about how individual or group coaching could help, feel free to reach out. I have ongoing coaching cohorts with enrolment throughout the year, focused on career transitions, leadership in social impact, and navigating life transitions. In a complimentary 30-minute call, we can talk about where you’re at, and where you want to go. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time. If it feels right, it probably is. Let’s chat.
