Executive Took 3-Day PTO to Be a Housewife, Tackle a Dusty List and Feel More Present at Home

Three days away from work

Over three days, she cleared a closet, replaced a broken appliance and attended a Pilates class at 11 a.m. The pause gave her time to address goals that had lingered on her to-do list.

She also said she listened more closely to her children and felt more present with them. The household tasks were not the only benefit she noticed.

Different paths for working mothers

Her approach is one way millennial women and mothers are trying to manage family life while climbing the corporate ladder. Some are testing ways to find balance, while others are choosing to reduce their work commitments.

Sandberg on women stepping back

Former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg coined “Lean In,” a term encouraging women to pursue leadership roles even when family responsibilities presented an obstacle. She told Business Insider she understands why some women are leaning out.

Sandberg said it is a shame, arguing that women leaders often support policies that benefit women. She cited egg freezing, lactation rooms and competitive parental leave options.