Just when the world was busy celebrating women's day, IAS officer Divya Mittal candidly acknowledged through a post on X, that being an alumna of IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore didn't fully prepare her for the complexities of motherhood. Mittal shared heartfelt reflections on social media, offering a glimpse into her journey of raising two daughters while managing a demanding career.

In her posts, Mittal revealed that her eight-year-old daughter already encounters societal pressures attempting to suppress her voice when she expresses differing opinions. Mittal emphasized the importance of nurturing her daughter's confidence, teaching her to be both respectful and assertive, and reinforcing that her voice matters, even when it's shaky. She admitted to nights filled with exhaustion and tears, feeling stretched thin by the dual demands of work and motherhood.



Yet, moments of affection from her daughters, such as a heartfelt hug accompanied by the words "You're my hero," provide profound solace and motivation. Mittal believes that through observing their parents' resilience in the face of challenges, children learn the invaluable lesson that it's okay to fall, as long as they rise again.


Mittal also addressed the pervasive guilt that often accompanies motherhood—the fear of not being enough or making mistakes. She encourages mothers to forgive themselves, recognizing that in their unique ways, they are building a world where their children can pursue any aspiration. This message underscores the significance of self-compassion and the acknowledgment that perfection is neither attainable nor necessary in parenting.

She advocates for unwavering self-belief, especially when faced with doubt from others, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's inherent beauty and worth, irrespective of societal conventions. Mittal also highlights the value of being proud of one's accomplishments, understanding the unique struggles each individual has faced, and maintaining faith in the goodness of people, despite encountering negativity.

Through her candid sharing of personal challenges, Divya Mittal offers a nuanced perspective on the multifaceted roles women navigate. Her journey underscores that while academic and career achievements are significant, the lessons learned through personal experiences, such as motherhood, are equally profound.