Evening news anchor for the ABC affiliate in Providence, Rhode Island, Allison Alexander always says that being a working mom is the hardest job she’s blessed to have. She gets to spend all day snuggling with her baby and then work evenings covering breaking news and doing what she loves.
1. What do you love about being a mom?
I love seeing the joy that my daughter brings to those around her and also knowing that this tiny little person was created from the love that my husband and I share.
2. What do you enjoy most about working?
Work is more than a job for me, it’s my career. Journalism is what I studied in college. It’s my passion. One of the things I like most about my job is that I get to meet new and interesting people each day. Every day I learn something new. And, there’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of breaking news.
3. What’s your biggest challenge in juggling both?
My biggest challenge in juggling both is that I am constantly tired and I feel like a lot of things don’t get done. If I actually get a gift mailed on time, it’s a miracle.
4. How do you deal with it?
A sense of humor is crucial. I remind myself to show up and be in the moment. When I’m with my daughter, I try to be fun, engaging and patient. Those first few weeks going back to work were tough – spilling breast milk on my suit moments before going on the air, fitting in pumping sessions between newscasts, but it got easier. I also try to surround myself with positive people who support and love me.
5. How do you re-charge?
Having coffee with a girlfriend, a rare date night with my husband, some fresh air with the sun beating down on my face, or a good night’s sleep all seem to do wonders for me.
6. What advice would you give other women considering being a working mom?
As women, we put so much pressure on ourselves to be perfect. If you choose to work outside the home, make sure you have at least one mom friend you can call on for support – because you’ll need it. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that there are a lot of people who want to tell you the “right” way to do things. What you need is a non-judgmental friend that will remind you how wonderful you are and that the way you’re doing things is the right way. You need a mom friend to share in your joys, sorrows, to help build you up, laugh with you and celebrate the small victories.
7. Who inspires you?
I find inspiration everywhere, in all different forms. My family, my friends, my co-workers, people I interview, strangers.
8. What one thing can you not live without?
I can’t name just one. Impossible. Family, friends, faith and sunshine.
9. If you had an hour of time to yourself, how would you spend it?
I would meet my closest girlfriends for lunch or a glass, or two, of wine.
