Three women share with us their stories on striding the divide between work and being mom.

Mummy Knows Best

An all-rounder and an achiever in college, I worked hard at getting my MBA and plunged into a fast-track career as a marketing professional. Not satisfied with a nine to five job, I decided to start my own business.

My husband and I set up 'K-Express', our very own curry-paste business, which did well. Just as the business was ready for take off, I conceived! Though I quickly settled down into the role of a mother, sometimes I feel I should have just done graduation if all I had to do was sit at home.

After my daughter Meera became a year old, I took up a part-time assignment at a management coaching institute where I trained students on group discussions and interviews.

While I went to work, I would leave Meera with my father. However, the nagging feeling of abdicating my responsibility towards her followed me wherever I went.

To work full time, I will have to leave her at a crèche, the very thought of which scares me. But she is helpless now and I cannot leave her and work. I think women should think clearly about their priorities before having children.

Motherhood changes your live forever!

Before Meera came into our life, I was planning my first business venture. Now, I am planning to stay at home or work from home for about three years till she goes to school.

- Kalpana Rai Menon