Freelancing: A Double-Edged Sword for Working Mothers

work has undeniably shifted, particularly for working mothers. Lindsay Thomas, after the birth of her second child in 2024, opted for a part-time, remote version of her communications role, a decision driven by the complexities of managing family and career. Her story mirrors a broader trend where women are reassessing their professional options, often steering away from conventional full-time roles.

The Decline of Women in the Workforce

Recent data reveals a troubling decline in workforce participation among women, especially those with young children. Between January and June last year, the number of employed mothers aged 25 to 44 fell by nearly 3%, reaching its lowest point in over three years. This decline starkly contrasts the employment gains women made during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, AI advancements are exacerbating gender imbalances in the job market. A report from March found that women are 16% more likely to be in roles vulnerable to AI automation, increasing their risk of layoffs. With many companies pushing return-to-office mandates, women are forced to navigate between career continuity and domestic responsibilities, a decision further strained by rising childcare costs.

The Rise of Freelancing as a Solution

Freelancing has emerged as a viable alternative for many mothers seeking flexibility. The allure of setting one's schedule and working from home is compelling, especially as full-time roles demand more rigid structures. Brea Starmer, CEO of staffing firm Lions and Tigers, articulates this shift, noting that traditional work models often fail to accommodate varied lifestyles.

Yet, freelancing isn't without its challenges. It offers autonomy but lacks the stability and benefits of full-time employment. Jaime Hollander's experience underscores this duality. Transitioning from a grueling commute to full-time freelancing, she found herself as the default parent, juggling professional and familial responsibilities around the clock.

What Needs to Change?

The persistent question is whether companies will adapt to these evolving needs. As AI continues to reshape job demands, businesses must recognize the value of flexible roles and remote work options. The question now is whether employers will truly embrace this shift or continue to sideline potential talent.

The current trajectory suggests that unless workplace policies evolve, many women may feel compelled to abandon traditional career paths. The calculus is clear: without changes, the choice between family and career becomes a false dichotomy. Reading the legislative tea leaves, it's apparent that systemic reforms are necessary to support a more inclusive workforce.

, while freelancing offers a temporary fix, it highlights a deeper issue: the urgent need for workplaces to accommodate diverse life circumstances. For many women, this isn't just a choice. it's a forced adaptation to a system that has yet to catch up with modern realities.