Why Women Still Can’t Have It All

I don't mind if women want it all, I just wish they'd stop asking me "is that all?"

 

I am JackS' incorrect conclusions.

 

Author was just on Morning Joe, but I only caught the very end.

 

Just guessing it didn't turn into a discussion on the problems of men dealing with women who want to have it all.

 

Ha ha...OK, I'll bite. How are you my incorrect conclusion?

While you're formulating your response, I'll go ahead and define "ambition," at least the "soul crushing" variety, since someone asked for one.

I define it as always needing to reach the next rung, never being satisfied with what you've already got.

If someone else defines it as the desire to reach a certain (relatively modest) level and then being satisfied when you do, then my initial post won't apply.

 

The fact is, if you work in America, you actually will end up covering for someone who's at a soccer game/playdate/recital. It's just the reality of the work world. Don't like it? Tough shit.

 

If you ever have kids, there will be a time when you'll want someone to cover for you so you can attend their soccer/playdates/recitals. It's funny how life works out.

 

Do not assume people are happy to just put off their plans so you can go see your kid kick a speckled ball around a soccer pitch.

 

I should think they wouldn't be.

Just as very few parents who scale back to half-time are happy to be paid for 50% of the job while being expected to do 75% of it.

 

Oh, I'd want it.

But I'd never be brazen enough to ask for it or expect it. Not without offering something in return.

Anything else is blatant selfishness. "My time is more important than yours."

 

If you are needing people to 'cover for you', you really don't have it all.

 

I agree.

If I'm asked to work a different day or a different time so a co-worker has something planned, I do it. And when I need the time, I expect the same. Quid pro quo.