How has COVID affected women in the workplace?
Feeling worn out lately? You’re not alone. Since the pandemic struck last spring, workers across America and the world have faced one disruption after another. Anxiety, exhaustion, mental health woes, fear—the struggle is real in 2020. Yet, a recent study released by McKinsey & Company suggests pandemic-related burnout is hardest on women in particular.
Female employees—especially women of color—are more likely than men to be furloughed, leading to stalled careers and financial stress. And, for those fortunate enough to keep their jobs, the age-old tension between family and work is especially harrowing for women now as schools and offices close, leaving moms to juggle math problems between Zoom meetings—all from the same kitchen table.
Sadly, this new dynamic is leading to an exodus of women from the workforce.
According to the McKinsey report, 1 in 4 women are now considering quitting their jobs or taking a leave of absence. That means for the first time in six years, since McKinsey began measuring the state of women at work, the rate of female employees leaving the workforce will exceed that of men. And all the progress we’ve made in gaining leadership roles for women will be negated by these unprecedented social ramifications of a pandemic that shows no sign of slowing.
How can we stop the madness?
Well first of all, take a deep breath, and don’t make any rash decisions. Emotions are high in this crazy chapter of history and chances are we won’t see the big picture clearly until the pandemic has passed. So stay the course. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Adjust your hours or responsibilities if needed in the short-term, but DO NOT jump ship altogether from a career you love. All your hard work deserves to be honored now more than ever.
Secondly, find what fuels you—and do it. Yes, the house might be loud and crowded, and your favorite methods of escape might be impossible as social outlets lock down and travel options shrink, but try to find five, ten, fifteen minutes to hide with a cup of coffee or a glass of your favorite wine. Read a book or indulge in chocolate. Go for a run, walk the dog—just do something that brings you joy. Then tomorrow, do it again. And again the next day, and the next, until you’ve discovered a habit of caring for yourself amidst the necessity of caring for others. That alone can sustain you through the trial.
And finally, find a support system. Women in the workforce need other women who can understand their stresses and their dreams. Many women don’t truly recognize their own value or foresee the impact they can make. Women’s Leadership Academy is the perfect place to discover your real worth among friends. Let us come alongside you to shore up your confidence and empower you to pursue a leader’s path. The world needs your contribution to survive this storm. We’ll help you learn how to offer it on your terms.
You’ve already invested so much in others. Now is the time to invest in YOU. Learn more about WLA. We can’t wait to welcome you.