Shakira opens up about motherhood and work-life balance

Shakira is committed to being a positive role model for her sons.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone for their July/August cover story, the 47-year-old "Hips Don't Lie" singer discussed her approach to motherhood with her two sons, Sasha and Milan whom she co-parents with ex Gerard Piqué, 37, while also balancing her music career.

"When we're mothers, we never dial it down," Shakira told the outlet. "We can keep working, but our commitment as mothers is nonnegotiable."

The “Whenever, Wherever” singer added, "Sometimes achieving balance is difficult, right? How much time do you dedicate to yourself, to your work, to the children? But children always come first and what consumes us the most."

Expressing that her sentiments about motherhood have intensified since becoming a single parent, Shakira shared, "I never had to rely on myself as much as I have fighting for my survival and the survival of my kids. I think they've seen their mother cry. I think they've seen her celebrate. I think they've seen her laugh. I think they've seen her work tirelessly."

"And that's it: I want to show them that life isn't linear. It's not how people picture it in the movies. Things don't turn out the way we want them to and you have to deal with disappointment. That's part of the human condition. It's why we're here," she added.