Special mention to Dato Dr. Munirah Looi, CEO of Brandt Business Services for sharing her perspective on the impact of technology on motherhood.
In a world where technology has become an integral part of our lives, we had the privilege of interviewing Dato Dr. Munirah, a resilient mother and the CEO of Brandt Business Services. As a trailblazer who once held the prestigious position of being the first female Vice President at Citibank and then took the leap to embark on an entrepreneurial journey in 2004, Dr. Munirah’s perspectives on the impact of technology on motherhood offer valuable insights for young working moms striving to excel both at home and in their careers.
The Digital Revolution in Motherhood
Dr. Munirah candidly shared that technology has personally enabled her to support and be present with her family, even during frequent work-related travels. Many women have also experienced the positive effects of technology, transitioning from being working moms confined to office spaces to working-from-home moms who can care for their families and advance their careers simultaneously. However, this shift could also bring the risk of overworking and a disproportionate work-life balance.
To mitigate the challenges of balancing motherhood and career, it is essential to master the art of adapting to the work-life blend. Dr. Munirah emphasises the importance of prioritising tasks that require the most time and energy. Additionally, maintaining a positive and healthy mental state and fostering open communication with work peers are crucial. Being able to practice flexibility in working arrangements can greatly alleviate stress.
Dr. Munirah advises, “It is essential that we be patient and kind to ourselves while managing these demands. Balancing motherhood and career can be overwhelming at times, but you should focus on what you can do rather than what you can’t as it helps you to stay motivated and empowered.”
The Virtual Village
Dr. Munirah echoes the age-old saying that it takes a village to raise a child but notes that technology has transformed this village into a virtual one. Video calls, platforms like Zoom and WhatsApp, have bridged distances — allowing children to connect with grandparents and distant relatives more frequently. Moreover, mothers today can rely on collaboration tools like WhatsApp groups and Google Docs to share news, tips, and challenges related to parenting, schooling, and general activities with other parents.
Empowering Moms at Home
The digital age has also empowered mothers to take on the role of home educators. Creative child enrichment and educational apps, such as Tynker for coding, TTRockstars for math games, and Phonics Bloom for English learning, provide opportunities for children’s growth.
In addition, mothers can engage in fun activities with their children through apps like Scribblio for virtual games or YouTube tutorials like Art for Kids Hub for craft projects.
Embracing Digital Well-being in Motherhood
Of course, journeying through motherhood in the digital age presents new challenges as well — notably the overuse and dependence on technology which can lead to an unconscious divide between mothers and their children. Dr. Munirah stresses the need to limit screen time and engage in face-to-face conversations. Parents must be the guiding voice amidst the pervasive influence of digital media and the internet, establishing healthy boundaries and encouraging physical activities.
The impact of technology on motherhood is a double-edged sword. While it offers immense advantages, it also poses challenges that require careful navigation.
Dr. Munirah’s insights emphasise the importance of balance, prioritisation, open communication, and establishing healthy boundaries. Technology can serve as a valuable tool for mothers, fostering virtual communities and empowering them as home educators.
Ultimately, it is how we utilise technology that determines the value it brings to our lives. By embracing its benefits while being mindful of its drawbacks, mothers can navigate the digital age with confidence and create a harmonious environment for themselves and their families.
While this article was intended to celebrate and honour mothers on Mother’s Day in the month of May, we believe that every day is an opportunity to appreciate and acknowledge the incredible role that mothers play in our lives. Let us continue to express our love, gratitude, and admiration for mothers everywhere. They deserve our appreciation every single day for their unwavering love, selflessness, and dedication to their families. Happy belated Mother’s Day!