by Ife Thomas
Current MBA student, business owner and Mum of two young boys
Deciding to embark on a full-time MBA at Cranfield School of Management was far from an easy choice. As a parent, an entrepreneur, and someone deeply passionate about creating change, I had to pause and consider the impact this commitment would have – not just on my career but on my family, my business, and my sense of purpose.
Whenever I’m faced with a major life decision, I seek stillness. I ask myself a simple yet profound question: Who do I want to be in this moment? This mindset has helped me navigate life’s crossroads, ensuring my choices align with my values and priorities. Choosing to pursue an MBA was no exception. I knew it would require sacrifices, adaptability, and a redefinition of what balance truly means.
The myth of work-life balance
The idea of achieving a perfect work-life balance often feels like an illusion, especially for parents juggling multiple responsibilities. Reading around this topic it can be noted that rather than striving for balance, high-performing professionals benefit more from work-life integration - aligning personal and professional priorities rather than keeping them separate. Instead of striving for perfection, I’ve learned to set clear priorities and manage my time with intention. Some days, my academic commitments take precedence; on others, my family or business require my full attention. Being proactive in planning, communicating with my support network, and setting realistic expectations has been essential in ensuring I can manage all these responsibilities effectively.
Support from faculty and peers
One of the biggest factors that has made this journey possible is the incredible support from the Cranfield faculty and my cohort. From day one, the faculty, especially Professor Leila Alinaghian, have been understanding and flexible, recognising the unique challenges faced by students who are parents or managing demanding external commitments. They have created an environment where I feel comfortable discussing my commitments and finding solutions that allow me to thrive both academically and personally.
Beyond faculty support, my fellow cohort members have been invaluable. Many of them are also balancing family responsibilities and/or business ventures. The sense of camaraderie and shared understanding has made a world of difference, reinforcing that I am not alone in this journey. Whether it's a study group offering to catch me up on a missed session or a lecturer providing additional guidance, the Cranfield community has been instrumental in helping me stay on track.
Top tips for studying as a parent
If you're considering an MBA or any form of higher education while managing family life, here are some key strategies that have helped me:
- Plan ahead – Use a shared calendar to map out key academic deadlines, family commitments, and work tasks in advance.
- Set realistic expectations – Accept that you can’t do everything perfectly; prioritise tasks based on urgency and importance.
- Build a support network – Engage family, friends, and colleagues to support you when needed, whether it’s childcare or study groups.
- Maximise efficiency – Use productivity tools like Trello, Notion, or Pomodoro timers to make the most of study sessions.
- Communicate openly – Let professors, classmates, and employers know about your commitments so they can offer flexibility where possible.
- Take breaks – Research suggests that short breaks improve focus and prevent burnout.
- Remember your ‘Why’ – Keeping sight of your long-term goals can help you stay motivated during challenging moments.
Juggling parenting and studying
As a parent, these moments of decision-making happen daily. My two boys, aged 11 and 13, often ask me to be present - whether it’s staying beside them until they fall asleep or watching their basketball practice. Sometimes, I can’t. When I have late night meetings with international clients, I have to tuck them in quickly and head straight to my desk. In those moments, instead of guilt, I focus on the bigger picture: I’m working to provide for them and make a meaningful impact through my career.
For any parent considering further study, it’s important to acknowledge that there will be trade-offs. There will be times when your studies take priority, and other times when your family or work commitments come first. The key is to own these decisions without guilt and to communicate openly with those around you.
Redefining balance: Purpose over perfection
I no longer strive for balance in the traditional sense, where everything is evenly distributed. Instead, I focus on making real-time decisions that reflect my values and priorities.
If you’re considering a career change, launching a business, or returning to education, I encourage you to take a moment to pause and reflect. Research from McKinsey & Company suggests that professionals who engage in lifelong learning not only improve career prospects but also enhance their problem-solving abilities and adaptability in an evolving job market.
Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or both, pursuing an MBA - or any further education - is a transformative experience. It won’t always be easy, but by making choices rooted in purpose rather than perfection, you can create a version of balance that works for you.
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