#mefirstmums: Jasmine Gan is all for mummy tribes and mutual support among working mothers

Photo: Raymond Lee / Capsule Productions

Jasmine Gan is a cheery mother of two who's an expert at balancing time between herself and her family. As a working mum, the Head of  Marketing at Arts House Ltd isn't apologetic for the me-time she indulges in whenever she needs a break. Here's what she thinks of being a #mefirstmum: 

Why is being #mefirst important to you?

Women are conditioned to sacrifice, so we tend to put everyone else’s needs before ours. I realised that in order to be a good mother, I would need to prioritise myself as well as reconnect with myself and who I want to be.

What do you need to be a #mefirstmum?

I have a very good support system in my husband and family. Whenever I need a couple of hours to run personal errands, I’ll talk to my husband and my parents to ask if they can step in. I also formed a mummy tribe with my girlfriends. When we arrange for play dates, that’s when I reconnect with the mums and engage in adult conversations.

How do you feel when you're judged for your actions?

I think success isn’t measured by the number of hours you spend with your children; it’s the quality time spent together, even 30 minutes. And whether you spend enough time with your children varies with different families. I always think that a happy and balanced mum is a good mum, so if you’re happy working, just do it. Or if you’re happy being a stay-at-home mum, do it.

VIDEOGRAPHY: Alicia Chong

STYLING: Bryan Goh 

HAIR & MAKEUP: Rina

ALSO READ: #MEFIRSTMUMS: PRISCILLIA TAN PROVES THAT BEING A BEAUTY QUEEN HAS MADE HER A BETTER MOTHER