The Balance Collective

08/06/2026

In the same week that Working Families announced its closure, the Motherhood Index clearly shows the impact of the lack of infrastructure, economic pressure, and limited mental health support on mums.

Having spent over two decades supporting people with their careers and balance, there is a lot we can take control of.

But, at some point, we need a wider conversation.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/motherhood-index-makes-one-thing-clear-things-need-clara-wilcox-xkp0e

08/06/2026

Need a break?
I can offer you twenty seconds.
It's worth it I promise

SOUND UP!

06/06/2026

The latest survey by lays bare what so many feel.

Identify change
"Functioning" yet burntout
Careers shifts
Wellbeing concerns
Crippling mental load

So what will be done about it?

In the same week that has announced its closure, we see clearly the impact of the lack of infrastructure, economic pressure, and limited mental health support on mums.

Having spent over two decades supporting people with their careers and balance, there is lots we can take control of.

But, at some point, we need a wider conversation.

We need better funded services.
We need systems and structures that put children at the centre.
We need flexible working to be treated with respect.
We need a better resourced NHS.

Maybe it's time to give the matriachy a go?

What would you like to see happen next ?

04/06/2026

I’m going to set you a mini challenge, and ask that you set aside 1200 seconds, just twenty minutes, each day to do these things. Don’t overthink it. This isn’t about completion but beginning. Things to do that will help you when you are ready for your next career move, be it a promotion, a new role or a pitch for that next client! So next time you are wondering how to make a real difference to your career, why not grab this list?

So, let’s begin.

How to support your career when you are busy? From CV updates to time off.

https://thebalancecollective.co.uk/2026/06/04/how-to-support-your-career-when-busy/

02/06/2026

Ten things you may not know about me:

1. I’m tall - people used to stop me in the street to mention it!
2. I can’t draw but I love to colour in.
3. I can carry a tune and have performed on several Birmingham stages as part of a choir.
4. The Balance Collective is not my only business - I’m also a co-Director of an amazing CIC
5. I became the face of a make-up range in my 30s.
6. You know if I find you funny because I snort when I laugh.
7. If I REALLY like you, I’ll interrupt you; I get excited that we get on so well and can’t stop myself!
8. I’ve had pretty much every hair colour you can imagine - I’ve been green several times, once by accident.
9. I’m terrible at directions - I’m eternally grateful for GPS
10. I used to work in McDonalds but I don’t like the food.

We are so much more than our job titles; how would it feel to share a bit more of you?

01/06/2026

“June is a time when new possibilities unfold, paving the way for personal growth and achievement.” – Sarah Addison Allen



I’m now back at my desk after a wonderful half term, and ready for what looks like will be a fun-filled June! This includes a birthday celebration for our youngest, amongst other things.



This month’s plans include:

Personal Development Book Title in June is “Calmism “ by Dr Alexis Willett (11th)

Ask Me Anything Session on the 22nd June

Get the link to the book, and more, here:

June plans for Career & Return to Work Coach Clara Wilcox. Book titles, workshops and more!

01/06/2026

New habits can start on a random Monday.
We all know the power of sunlight first thing.
But with no commute or school run, it can feel a little harder.
So today, I just moved where I have my cuppa.
I still had to drag myself out of bed.
Everything else has stayed the same.
No complicated morning routine.
Just ten minutes in a different place of my home.
Finding the time doesn't have to be complicated.

28/05/2026

“A guide to thriving” is holistic, well-thought-out, reflective and immediately actionable. His approach leads the reader to a core belief that we have agency. This control and influence over life that then builds and supports our resilience. But, as Jon Rosemberg stresses, “The ideas in this book are invitations, not conclusions”. So, you may take something different based on what you need in your life, right now!

So, before go, I want to share with you my standout quote of the book. On page 120 he talks about the importance of savouring, a key part of staying in the present.

So, I leave you with this reminder:



“Savoring … includes lingering in positive moments and letting them nourish us long after they have passed”.





Have you read A Guide to Thriving? I’d love to know what you think.

You can find the full blog and link to the book in the comments

21/05/2026

If, like me, you want to have realistic, honest, and inclusive conversations about careers and education (I'm looking at you, Department of Education), hop over to this week's blog.

I've written this wearing two hats; over twenty years helping people in their careers and the parents of two delightful children navigating a troublesome education system.

So, this is the advice I give them, and now I give to you

Head over to this week's blog (in the comments) and let me know your thoughts.

20/05/2026

What have you forgotten?

You are going through the list:

Childcare confirmed

Confirmed your return date with HR.

Updated the team when you are back.

Flexible working request submitted

Have you sorted your return-to-work induction and asked about return-to-work coaching?

It's not just you.

Over half of parents want their employers to ask what help they need.

That includes help with their mental well-being when they return.*

One way is to engage a qualified external return-to-work coach.

Someone who can guide you through this life transition while supporting you in building your new (or newer) identity as a working parent.

It doesn't matter whether it's your first or last return; all returns benefit from return-to-work coaching.

I have space available for new (and returning - pun intended) clients starting in June 2026.

Please feel free to reach out to see how I can help you.

I support individuals and companies- take a moment to see if your employer would cover the cost of coaching. Many will and do!

Email me on [email protected]

*Stats from the Female Lead: From Labour Ward to Labour Force. 8000 women in 100 countries. November 2024