The myth of work-life balance

When both work and home are exhausting for neurodivergent mums

What’s a woman to do? For neurodivergent mums in corporate environments, life offers little respite. Large corporations are renowned for their high-pressure environment, long hours, unrelenting deadlines, and demanding clients. But for many, the transition from the office to home doesn’t bring relief. Instead, the demands of motherhood, amplified by sensory and emotional overload, create a relentless cycle of exhaustion. The idea of ‘work-life balance’ feels less like a solution and more like a myth.

The double bind: career and family

Corporate jobs thrive on precision, resilience, and energy. Qualities neurodivergent individuals often excel in when given the right support. For example, many neurodivergent professionals bring unique strengths to the table, such as creative problem-solving, exceptional focus, or an ability to think outside the box. These strengths can allow them to succeed in roles demanding high levels of detail and innovation.

However, the challenges arise when workplace environments fail to accommodate neurodivergent needs, such as clear communication, sensory-friendly spaces, or flexible schedules. This is particularly true for neurodivergent mums, who often face compounded pressure as they juggle societal expectations of caregiving while managing the demands of their careers.

At home, the story isn’t simpler. Research suggests that neurodivergent individuals often experience heightened sensory sensitivities and emotional fatigue. Coupled with caregiving responsibilities, these factors contribute to an environment that can feel as intense as the workplace. For these mums, rest is a luxury rarely afforded.

One neurodivergent mum reflected: "I go from one high-pressure role to another. There’s no space to breathe, let alone recharge."

Work-life balance: A myth in disguise

The popular notion of work-life balance is often treated as an achievable goal if only the right effort or strategies are applied. For neurodivergent mums, however, this balance can feel unattainable. Both worlds (work and home) demand full capacity, leaving no margin for rest or restoration.

The high-pressure culture of corporate environments compound these challenges. Neurodivergent mums, in particular, are expected to seamlessly switch between their professional role and caregiver, often without adequate support or accommodations in either setting. It’s no wonder that many feel isolated and burnt out.

This is where many turn to retrain as coaches and set up their own businesses; in an effort to take agency of their professional and personal lives. However, neurodivergent mums still need opportunities to step back and recharge. Rest isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a vital component of resilience and long-term success.

Redefining the support system

Whether working for a corporation or setting up your own coaching business, flexible working arrangements, clear boundaries, and a deep understanding of yourself and your tolerance levels are no longer optional they’re essential.

Mind-body coaching offers another path forward. Bespoke coaching for neurodivergent mums provides strategies for managing the demands of high-pressure environments, advocating for their needs to be met, setting healthier boundaries, stress release techniques and learning new ways to build resourceful resilience. ADHD and mind-body coaching can be transformative, equipping mums with tools to navigate sensory, nervous system and emotional challenges while reclaiming a sense of control. For some mums coaching sessions provide a safe sanctuary. The only hour a week they get to think about themselves.

At home, support networks and cultural shifts are just as vital. Families and partners must play an active role in advocating for and sharing caregiving responsibilities and creating an environment that fosters understanding. Coaching, both personal and family-focused, can help bridge communication gaps, ensuring that neurodivergent mums are not carrying the burden alone.

A call to action

For neurodivergent mums, the question isn’t whether work-life balance is achievable, it’s whether it’s even the right goal. Instead of chasing balance, it’s time to prioritise genuine respite: inclusive workplaces, equitable home environments, and a cultural understanding that values rest as much as productivity.

Until then, the myth of balance remains just that, a myth.

Authored by Rachael Rogan on 24 March 2025