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23rd July 2024
03:10pm BST
"I took a solid four years off work when I had my two kids," she recalls.
Financially able to take this time off, Annaliese said she values those years, despite the impact on her career.
When she returned to work, it was gradual.
"I dipped back in, went part-time and did freelance work before I eventually got my rhythm back working full-time again."
Now, as a single parent to tween boys and the sole income earner, she works full-time and finds fulfilment in her career.
"I love working. I did the hard yards when my kids were little, and now there is time and space for me."
Annaliese acknowledges the professional sacrifices she made.
"It impacted my earning capacity, superannuation, and career progression massively. I was a cautionary tale about how 'one-third of the gender pay gap is attributed to women taking time out of the workforce to care for their family.'"
Yet, she has no regrets. "I'm glad I took that time. There is a period when children are little that something has to give. In a hetero-normative relationship, it's typically the woman's career that gives. It was for me.
"But it doesn't have to be." Reflecting on her upbringing, Annaliese notes her progressive family dynamic.
"I grew up in the '90s with a dad as a primary carer. My mum worked very hard and was successful, but she resented the time missed with us." This influenced Annaliese’s priorities with her own children.
"When it came to having time with my own babies, I didn't want to have regrets."
She went on to say: "Your career will ebb and flow depending on the needs of your family. But nothing is permanent.
“Having a child isn't the death of your career. It's just different."
Returning to work brought about new challenges, including imposter syndrome.
"I was older than the people managing me and felt a bit silly. It takes time to find your rhythm again, but once you do, it can be the making of you."
Annaliese's story highlights the resilience of working mothers. "Motherhood gives you perspective, empathy, determination, and efficiency.
"It also drives you to find something you love to do." Now at 40, she feels she has found her place.
"You can have it all, just not all at once. There is always time to get back on track, and when you do, it feels really good."
Annaliese's journey offers hope and insights for millions of women across the globe who are trying to balance motherhood and careers.
She is leading the way in showing women that while the path may be challenging, it can also be incredibly rewarding.
