SOME POINTERS Motherhood and work

There are no "right" answers for working moms, author Laraine T. Zappert insists. But she and other women who have been there offer this general advice:
If you think you want kids, go for it. "Don't wait so long thinking this decision is going to get easier," Zappert says. Many survey respondents warn that years of indecisiveness left them struggling with fertility problems in their late 30s.
Be a tough negotiator. Don't be afraid to ask for what you need from your employer.
Don't be afraid to pay for services you need -- not just child care, but also routine tasks such as housecleaning or cooking. Looking back, this is the No. 1 thing survey respondents wish they had done differently while raising children.
Invite others' help in managing family issues. Don't feel that you have to assume psychological responsibility for everything that happens in the family.
Be flexible: "You may not know what you want in the future," Zappert says. "It's really hard for any of us to know how you're going to feel after you have a baby. Things change. Give yourself flexibility. You can't plan for every eventuality."