Empowering the Modern Mother: Navigating Career Success and Family Life with Chris M. Guérette

Mother’s Day may be officially over, but the profound celebration and recognition of motherhood should resonate throughout the year. Being a mother is an unending commitment, a role that profoundly shapes not only the lives of our children but also significantly influences our career trajectories and personal development. In today’s dynamic world, mothers are constantly redefining what it means to balance professional ambition with the invaluable responsibilities of raising a family.

Societal norms often undervalue or underestimate the multifaceted contributions of mothers. It is therefore crucial to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and invaluable insights of women who masterfully navigate the dual responsibilities of motherhood and career. Chris M. Guérette, the esteemed CEO of the Saskatchewan Realtors Association (SRA), stands as a powerful exemplar of perseverance, resilience, and profound self-awareness. Her journey showcases how unwavering dedication can lead to both professional triumph and deeply fulfilling motherhood. Here, she shares candid reflections on her unique path.

Insights from a CEO Mom: Chris M. Guérette on Work-Life Integration

In this exclusive interview, Chris M. Guérette opens up about the challenges, triumphs, and transformative lessons learned while leading a prominent association and nurturing her family. Her experiences offer a beacon of inspiration for countless women striving to excel in every aspect of their lives.

Natalka Falcomer (NF): Many women find it challenging to strike a balance between advancing their careers and being present for their children. Can you share any strategies or insights you’ve discovered that have helped you navigate this delicate balance in your own life?

Chris M. Guérette (CMG): This question truly encapsulates a significant life lesson that many women, myself included, are often unprepared for: the profound sense of guilt that frequently accompanies motherhood. It’s a common experience for many parents, this feeling of not being good enough or constantly falling short. However, women, in particular, seem to experience the intensity of this guilt and judgment more acutely, often stemming from the roles and expectations society places upon us. These expectations, whether explicit or implicit, can become deeply ingrained, making it difficult to discern where our own desires end and external pressures begin.

For me, a critical turning point involved developing a deep self-awareness around these roles and expectations. I realized that while I had come to believe these expectations were intrinsically ‘mine,’ they were not, in fact, *me*. They were *given* to me – narratives and responsibilities prescribed by culture, tradition, or even well-meaning individuals. While I accepted them at the time, that acceptance was distinct from actively defining my *own* expectations for myself as a mother and a professional. Crucially, I recognized that no one else could define the role and expectations relating to my children as effectively or authentically as I could. This realization was profoundly empowering. It meant that others might judge me based on their perceived notions of imbalance or what my role *should* be, but I held the ultimate knowledge of what was best for my family and myself. Recalibrating these expectations, truly defining what I am and am not, and understanding *why* I choose to do certain things, became an incredibly liberating process. The beautiful outcome of this self-discovery is the ability to readjust your “balance” at any moment. *You* are in control. So, sometimes I find that perfect equilibrium, and sometimes I don’t. The concept of “life balance” is so vast and often unrealistic as a constant state. Sometimes, true balance isn’t about achieving a grand, overarching equilibrium, but rather about finding peace and presence in smaller moments, especially when larger periods feel overwhelming and out of sync.

NF: Motherhood often coincides with critical points in one’s career. How have you managed to pursue and achieve career milestones while also fulfilling your role as a mother? Are there specific choices or compromises you’ve made that you believe have positively impacted both areas of your life?

CMG: It’s an interesting premise, isn’t it? Does motherhood truly *coincide* with critical career points, or are we perhaps consumed by a fear of missing out, leading us to *believe* these are fleeting opportunities we won’t reclaim? Personally, I prefer to view my entire career journey as a series of critical points, constantly evolving and presenting new opportunities. Achieving milestones is not a finite process; it’s a continuous ascent. My aspiration is for each new milestone to surpass the last, demonstrating ongoing growth and learning. This perspective shifts the narrative from scarcity to abundance, allowing me to embrace opportunities as they arise rather than lamenting those that might seem momentarily out of reach.

“I know I am a better human, a better leader, a more effective community builder and a better colleague because I am a parent. I am so thankful for how that has helped me in my career.”

– Chris M. Guérette, CEO, Saskatchewan Realtors Association

Compromise is an undeniable and intrinsic part of life, particularly when juggling significant roles like motherhood and a demanding career. Have I, on occasion, missed out on certain professional opportunities because of my commitment to being a mother? Absolutely, 100 percent. But equally true, and profoundly impactful, is the fact that other, often unforeseen, doors have opened precisely *because* of my experiences as a parent. My strategy has been to intentionally cultivate a growth mindset, focusing on the potential and new avenues that emerge, rather than succumbing to a “what about me” mentality or dwelling on perceived losses. This approach has allowed me to view every decision, every “compromise,” as a redirection towards new strengths and capabilities. I can say with absolute certainty that I am a better human being, a more empathetic and effective leader, a more astute and engaged community builder, and a more understanding and supportive colleague, all because I am a parent. The skills honed in motherhood – patience, problem-solving, negotiation, resilience, and unconditional love – are incredibly transferable and have profoundly enriched my professional life. For that symbiotic relationship, and how my parenting journey has amplified my career success, I am immensely thankful.

NF: Building a successful career while raising children often requires a strong support system. Could you share the role that support from family, friends or colleagues has played in your journey? Have there been specific instances where this support proved crucial in helping you manage the dual responsibilities of work and motherhood?

CMG: Absolutely, having a robust support system is not just helpful; it is utterly crucial. In my situation, my extended biological family lived five provinces away, making daily reliance on them impractical. This geographical distance prompted me to consciously cultivate what I refer to as my “chosen family” – a network of incredibly supportive friends and mentors who became indispensable. These individuals were, quite frankly, gold. They provided emotional anchors, practical assistance, and an understanding ear when I needed it most. There were countless times when my professional world and my family world inevitably collided, and traditional support avenues were simply insufficient. In those moments, my children came with me to my professional engagements. And yes, I can almost *sense* the collective gasp from some, accompanied by an invisible wave of judgment. If that resonates with you, I gently suggest you pause, return to question number one, reread my insights on self-awareness and defining your own expectations, and reflect deeply. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200. This is precisely the kind of external judgment that can hinder a mother’s ability to define her own path.

For the rest of you, let’s continue with the reality of my journey. My children have been present at a remarkable number of board meetings, sitting quietly (most of the time!) in the corner. They’ve accompanied me to numerous other professional meetings, media interviews, and even fundraising events. They’ve learned about community engagement by helping with door-knocking campaigns and volunteering alongside me. Through no deliberate intention of their own, they’ve inadvertently participated in countless conference calls, sometimes providing impromptu background commentary. Of course, there were specific, pivotal moments when I knew a complete integration of both worlds – motherhood and career – was simply not feasible or appropriate. Those boundaries, recognizing when full separation is necessary, are also part of the journey. But the overarching lesson is that embracing flexibility and allowing your children to witness and be part of your professional life, where possible, not only normalizes the integrated experience but also offers them unique insights into your dedication and the world around them. It speaks volumes about authenticity and the reality of a modern working parent.

NF: Every journey has its challenges. Can you reflect on a particular challenge you faced as a working mother and how you overcame it? What lessons did you learn from that experience, and how did it shape your approach to balancing career and motherhood?

CMG: A particularly formative period in my life was when I was a single mother. Let’s take a moment to truly appreciate all the single moms out there – they are, without exaggeration, superheroes navigating incredible demands with immense strength. For those years, while they represented some of the most challenging, anxiety-filled, and utterly exhausting moments I have ever experienced, they were paradoxically also some of the most empowering. Looking back, I wouldn’t wish my journey to have unfolded any other way, as those trials forged a resilience and clarity I wouldn’t trade.

During that time, I developed a personal mantra. I used to tell myself that some days, I absolutely needed a superhero cape just to manage everything. The sheer weight of responsibility, the mental load, and the physical exhaustion often made me question how I would possibly push through. So, declaring it a “superhero kind of day” was my way of signaling to myself that I had to dig exceptionally deep; it felt like only a superhero could conquer the obstacles ahead. On those days, I would metaphorically put on my cape. This ritual eventually evolved into a language I could speak out loud, not just to myself, but also to my very young children. Over time, it became a shared narrative, allowing us to eventually laugh about it and use that language together. They would sometimes playfully remind me that I “forgot to wear my cape” if I made a mistake or faced a minor setback. This playful interaction normalized the idea of imperfection and resilience.

Isn’t that truly remarkable? To be able to openly discuss failures and mistakes as a unified family unit, rooted in mutual care and understanding. And doesn’t this philosophy directly mirror how we approach challenges in our professional careers? In business and leadership, we consistently strive to build the capacity of our teams, nurture our communities, and grow our businesses. We help define challenges, articulate desired mindsets, and collaboratively seek innovative solutions. Just as I learned to metaphorically don my superhero cape and persevere, we, as leaders, have the responsibility to empower others. We help our colleagues and team members find their own “superhero capes,” providing support and guidance until we can all achieve a more sustainable and fulfilling sense of balance, both individually and collectively. This experience as a single mother underscored the profound interconnectedness of personal resilience and professional leadership.

NF: Self-care is vital, especially for mothers juggling career and family. How do you prioritize self-care in your routine, and are there specific practices or rituals that you find particularly beneficial? How do these self-care strategies contribute to your overall well-being and effectiveness in both your professional and personal life?

CMG: I must confess, this is an area where I often “fail hard.” Prioritizing self-care is a constant battle, and my routine is far from perfect. I’ve experimented with countless different practices; some stick for a while, offering temporary relief, while others quickly fall by the wayside. However, one consistent and deeply impactful activity that has truly endured and made a significant difference is the intentional cultivation and investment in key friendships. These relationships are not merely casual acquaintances; they are deliberate connections with individuals who genuinely make me a better person, who challenge me, support me, and uplift me.

One such group meets every other month. We gather over delicious food and drinks, and our sessions are often loud and boisterous, filled with passionate discussions and debates – which we affectionately refer to as “riots.” Crucially, we have a unique and invaluable tradition: we dedicate time to sharing our “wins.” This isn’t a forum for venting frustrations or dwelling on challenges; rather, it’s a roundtable specifically designed to focus on growth and positive achievements. We actively push each other to identify and articulate our wins, no matter how small, that have occurred since our last meeting. We share them openly, and the entire group enthusiastically cheers for each other’s successes. This practice creates a powerful feedback loop of positive reinforcement and collective celebration, significantly boosting morale and perspective. It reminds us to acknowledge our progress amidst the daily grind.

Another vital component of my support system is a smaller, more intimate group of bold, career-focused executive mothers. We gravitated towards each other organically over the years, often through shared experiences in politics and community-building initiatives. The sheer amount of inspiration, intellectual stimulation, and renewed energy I derive from our time together is immeasurable. Our conversations delve into strategic leadership, navigating complex organizational challenges, and the unique dynamics of being a high-achieving mother. This network not only provides a safe space for candid discussions but also fuels my mindset, making me feel stronger, more capable, and more resilient in both my demanding career and my fulfilling family life. These relationships are not just self-care; they are strategic investments in my overall well-being and sustained effectiveness.

Redefining Balance and Embracing Growth: Key Takeaways for the Modern Mother

Chris M. Guérette’s inspiring journey as both a successful CEO and a dedicated mother offers invaluable, actionable lessons for women navigating the intricate complexities of career and family life in the 21st century. Her insights move beyond superficial advice, providing a roadmap for profound personal and professional fulfillment:

1. Reclaim Your Narrative. True empowerment begins when you define your own expectations for motherhood and career, rather than passively accepting those imposed by society or others. Embrace the profound power to recalibrate your sense of balance at any time, recognizing that equilibrium is dynamic and personal. This conscious act of self-definition is the foundation of authentic living.
2. Value Compromise. Life, especially for working mothers, is replete with choices that necessitate compromise. Learn to recognize that while some opportunities may shift or change due to family priorities, new and often more enriching doors will open as a direct result. Cultivate a growth mindset that views these redirections not as losses, but as pathways to unforeseen growth and unique experiences.
3. Build a Robust Support System. No one succeeds alone. Actively cultivate a “chosen family” of supportive friends, mentors, and colleagues who genuinely uplift you. Do not hesitate to integrate your family into appropriate professional spaces when necessary, normalizing the reality of working parenthood. This authentic approach can dismantle outdated perceptions and build stronger, more empathetic work cultures.
4. Embrace Challenges with Resilience. Approach every obstacle, particularly those unique to working mothers, with an unwavering growth mindset. Understand that each challenge, whether a demanding single-parent phase or a professional setback, presents a valuable opportunity for deep personal development, enhanced problem-solving skills, and strengthened resilience that will serve both your family and your career.
5. Prioritize Strategic Self-Care. Beyond traditional notions of rest, strategically invest in meaningful friendships and supportive professional networks. These relationships, characterized by genuine connection and mutual encouragement, are potent forms of self-care. They contribute profoundly to your mental fortitude, emotional well-being, and sustained effectiveness in both your professional endeavors and personal life.

By internalizing and actively applying these profound lessons, mothers can navigate their unique and challenging journeys with remarkable resilience, unwavering confidence, and an enduring commitment to achieving comprehensive personal and professional fulfillment. Chris M. Guérette’s story is a powerful reminder that it is not about finding a perfect balance, but about creating an integrated life where both career and motherhood thrive through intentional choices, strong support, and a steadfast belief in one’s own capabilities.