In a remarkably honest reflection on life after high office, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has opened up about the 'working mum guilt' that ultimately inspired her new venture as a children's author.
From the Beehive to the Bookshelf
Stepping away from the intense glare of global politics, Ardern has channelled a deeply personal experience into her newly released book, 'Whiti Te Rā: How to Feel Courageous'. The project, she explains, was born from conversations with her daughter, Neve, and the familiar pangs of anxiety felt by parents juggling career and family.
'It was that classic working mum guilt,' Ardern confessed, describing the feeling of heading out the door while her young child questioned her departure. This emotional catalyst led her to create a story that helps children understand and navigate the temporary absence of a parent.
A Story of Intergenerational Wisdom
The book, illustrated by the talented Isobel Joy Te Aho-White, is not a political memoir but a heartfelt tale. It follows a young girl who learns from her grandmother how to find inner strength and courage when she needs it most.
'The story is really about a child who is feeling a bit anxious and a grandmother who gives her a tool for being able to find that courage within herself,' Ardern elaborated. The narrative is a poignant parallel to the reassurance she herself sought to provide for her own child.
Life After Leadership
Since her surprising resignation in January 2023, Ardern's life has taken a different shape. Now juggling roles at Harvard University and as a special envoy for the Christchurch Call, her focus has undeniably shifted. This literary project marks a significant and personal new chapter, connecting her public profile with a universally relatable theme of modern parenting.
The book serves as a powerful reminder that the challenges of balancing work and family are felt by everyone, from everyday families to world leaders. Ardern's candid admission and creative response offer a touchpoint for parents everywhere who grapple with the same complex emotions.
