The SAHM State of Mind & the PR Profession

This week at lunch, the Hiebingites attended a Learning Luncheon, and something interesting came up as some food for thought. The notion of the SAHM -- the Stay-At-Home-Mom was just a brief mention in the presentation, but I found myself mulling it over. The "Stay-At-Home Mom" is a big target audience many different products and purposes, but the SAHM is becoming recognized as a state of mind, rather than a "profession". In a nutshell, some mom’s are choosing to stay at home, but they are doing "jobs" on the side. Ann from Hiebing said you hear it as, "I'm a stay-at-home mom, but I..." What may follow is, "but I am operating a small business on the side" or "I am head of the PTO" or "I am volunteering for a big fundraiser."

The stay-at-home mom being a "state of mind" was an eye-opening and thought-provoking piece of insight for me, as I plan on being a stay-at-home mom someday when my career is over. But this made me think, who says my career has to be over, just because I want to stay at home with my kids? I think this is an important concept for women entering the PR field who also dream of being moms. And not just having children, but mothering them. Yes, the PR world can be frantic and busy, (much like motherhood I would imagine). But being a SAHM does not mean you are restricted to the home. Pack the kids in the van and go to the park while you write your next best seller. In between writing, take a break and push the kids on the swings. It CAN be done.

SAHM as a state of mind may be a new way of thinking, but it has exsited for a long time. If one looks at women’s history, mothers were "working" outside of the home for decades. There were social and religious organizations, and other clubs and activites that were deemed “appropriate” for women. Well, these women were not just stay at homes moms. They were disussing politics, trying to advocate for change for thier families, and even coordinating a church bake sale, Even though these women did not have “careers,” these were jobs that they were doing. Words like "collaborating, "coordinating," "organizing," and "implementing" have been in women's vocabulary for generations. And now, this notion of what characterizes a SAHM has been changing for decades as more women are daring to think and step outside the box. I believe this is becoming increasingly relevant as more and more women are receiving an education and pursuing careers.

Growing up with my own SAHM, I've believed that I would have a job, and then be a mom, and that is it: A and then B. But the thought of having both A and B at the same time just never crossed my mind. Entering the professional realm has made me think about this lifestyles in a different way. And thanks to Ann's presentation, it made me think about new goals for myself, as well as encourage me to share my thoughts. Now, I am not saying all women should be like this. It is one's own choice. So young PR pro women, don’t be afraid to consider the SAHM option. Making an impact in PR world can be done while raising a loving family. It is, of course, just a state of mind.

The First Test

My first week in the PR world is over, as well as my first week of being an "adult." I already have a handful of knowledge and skills that will help me in the future as a profession, and as a "big girl."

The first week of a new job is never easy. Trying to adjust to the environment, the people, and the way things are done can be a little nerve racking. After this week of my internship, I’ve really had to rely on my past experiences and the skills I’ve learned in college. Already in the first week, I’ve gained so much knowledge that will help me in my further pursuits. I've heard how fast-paced the biz is, but I really had no grasp of exactly how busy it was. Jumping from one project to the next is the norm, and the day goes by in a whirlwind. But I am loving every second of it. This internship is already so different from any other experience I've ever had, and I will be better because of it.

Throw adjusting to “city life” into the mix, and I think I’ve come across the first test of my adult life. Madison is a gorgeous city with a lot to offer young people, families and even retirees. The hustle and bustle of the capitol only adds to the charm of the city. I’ve spent time meeting new people; forcing myself out of my shell in order to explore and experience Madison and all it has to offer.

So my first test for my first week in the PR world and the first time in the city…I have to say I have passed with flying colors. I am not intimidated and I’m welcoming the situations and challenges that are coming my way and will continue to test me. Being a PR intern in a city and overcoming the obstacles that hurdle at me is honestly what I’m looking forward to the most this summer. So this first test has told me a lot about myself and has made me realize something very important: I CAN rely on myself to get me through something, no matter what I’m doing or where I am. I can’t wait to see what else I can do this summer.