Balancing Caregiving and Career

Balancing caregiving and your career can feel like an impossible mission. Professional Black women are expected to be everything to everyone—holding it down at work and at home—but that pressure can wear you out fast.

I’ll never forget sitting in the library during grad school when my sister called me in the middle of a mental health crisis. I spent hours on the phone trying to help her, all while stressing about my upcoming exam. By the end of the day, I felt like I’d let everyone and everything down, including myself.

Studies show that 61% of employed caregivers, especially Black women, report major impacts on their work. From missed promotions to reduced hours, the juggling act takes a toll.

Try a "dual planner" system: one for work and one for caregiving. Map out your week and note where things overlap. Don’t be afraid to ask your employer for flexibility—remote work, adjusted hours, or even an EAP resource can make all the difference. Remember: doing your best doesn’t mean doing it all.

Journal On This:

• Journal Prompt: "What does success mean to you when balancing caregiving and career? What support do you need to make that vision a reality?"

As we close out the Caregiver Chronicles series, I want to remind you of one thing: you are extraordinary. The love, care, and strength you pour into others is unmatched, and you deserve the same devotion for yourself. Carry these tools and insights with you, but more importantly, carry the belief that you are worthy of balance, joy, and peace—always. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. This isn’t goodbye, but a reminder that you’re never alone in this. You’ve got this, Sis, and I’m rooting for you every step of the way. ❤️

Honoring you,

Dr. Dom

This is part of Dr. Dom's Caregiver Chronicles series. Read the entire series here!