All the academic mamas

I cannot quite describe the joy of motherhood, in the same way that I cannot characterise how worried I am about being able to juggle motherhood, work, and Ph.D. student life. I am thankful that my mum's been able to stay with me the past couple of months as I adjust to this new role. I am also grateful that my supervisors are supportive mothers as well. The fact that they continue to support me and openly share their motherhood experiences greatly normalises the concerns that I have as a new mum. It's still several weeks until I am assigned a mother's group, and so apart from connecting with all my friends who are mums, I take to Twitter.

I ask academic moms, women in science, and other Ph.D. students to share their best advice in four words or less. I don't know why I was surprised that there are actually so many Ph.D. mothers out there. Let me share with you all the advice I received.

• Sometimes persistence is courage.
• Don't have to compare (with others).
• Learn to say no.
• Work hard at work. Play hard at home. (Two parts of four words)
• Done, not perfect.
• "No, but thank you."
• You are good enough!
• Take care of yourself.
• Never forget your priorities.
• Naps. Take them.
• Eat what you like.
• Play. Chocolate. Wine. Laugh.
• Put your family first.
• Celebrate your small wins!
• You can ace it!
• You've been through worse. (technically five words)
• Avoid panic and worries.
• Be kind to yourself.

For any of you Ph.D parents, remember you aren't alone.